Industry veterans make up SNAC International’s leaders for 2023-24
The leaders are set to provide value across the association’s three pillars of education, advocacy and networking.
Executive committee
Heading the group is Justin Spannuth, who begins his one-year term as chairman. Spannuth is chief operating officer and a member of the sixth generation managing the family-owned and operated Unique Snacks.
“SNAC International has made great strides over the last few years and is now in a very innovative and hyper growth mindset, which is right up my alley,” said Spannuth.
“Getting this opportunity to have a voice in how SNAC can better represent the industry through focuses on startup brands, additional suppliers and services, aggressive growth of our voice in Washington, as well as a better understanding of the international side of snacking.
“There are many key goals and objectives that will be strategically implemented over the coming years, and I look forward to the challenge of helping to create the vision, process, and path.”
Hector De La Barreda, SVP, chief global business platforms & process optimisation officer for The Hershey Company has elected as the 1st vice chair, while Michele Reardon, VP of Communications for Campbell Snacks, takes on the duties of 2nd vice chair.
- Past chairman: Mike Harper, VP of Finance and CFO of Rudolph Foods
- Past chairman: Dan Sifer, senior VP of Supply Chain for Herr Foods
- Treasurer: Clifton Hilario, CFO and COO of Hippeas
- Secretary: Leanne Oliver, general council for PepsiCo Foods North America
- Associate executive council president: Tina Hacker, sales manager, Speciality Powders, Land O’Lakes
- Christine Cochran, president and CEO of SNAC International
Directors-at-large
- Kevin Brick, Utz Brands (3-year term)
- Julie Calef, Old Dutch Foods (1-year term)
- Bernard Kreilmann, Eagle Family Foods (3-year term)
- Bruce Myers, Benestar Brands (3-year term)
- Megan Reamer, Jackson’s (3-year term)
- Mark Brogan, Printpack (3-year term)
Associate executive council
SNAC’s Associate Business Members also approved a new Associate Executive Council (AEC) slate of officers, as well as two new AEC Directors-at-Large.
With the goal of enhancing networking opportunities between suppliers and snack producers, the AEC makes recommendations to the Board, providing a voice for associate members and ensuring all of SNAC’s events and offerings provide enhanced value for the group.
AEC Officers
- President: Tina Hacker, Land O’Lakes
- 1st Vice President: Jeff Almond, Heat and Control
- 2nd Vice President: Chad McDonald, Bryce Corporation
- Secretary: Mike Cantore, Carolina Ingredients
- Past President: Lisa Stern, LifeSpice
AEC Directors-at-Large
- Mark Brogan, Printpack (3-year term)
- Alec Pratto, Focke & Co (3-year term)
- Dulcinea Freymoyer, Reading Bakery Systems (second year of 3-year team)
- Andre Bouquet, Packaging Corporation of America (second year of 3-year term)
- Kevin Pecha, AZO (final year of 3-year term)
Cochran was appointed as SNAC president and CEO in 2021, taking over the role from Elizabeth Avery who retired after five years at the organisation’s helm.
“We are beyond grateful to Mike Harper for his many contributions to the board as chairman,” said Cochran.
“We are thrilled to welcome Justin as our newest Chair of the Board. We know his energy and innovation at Unique Snacks will carry through to SNAC International’s initiatives for years to come.”
Founded in 1937, SNAC International – formerly Snack Food Association – represents more than 400 companies worldwide, including suppliers, marketers and manufacturers.
