INFORM May 2026

28 INFORM MAY 2026, VOL. 37, NO. 5

collaboration, values that have guided me throughout more than 30 years at Nestlé Research, where I have dedicated my career to advancing the science, technology, and application of fats and oils. Over the years, I have had the privilege to explore lipids from every angle: quality and safety, nutrition, technology, analytical methods, product development, and now innovation strategy. Innovation has always been at the heart of my work. Lipids have been the “red thread” of my career, accompanying me from research laboratories to global leadership roles. Today, the focus of my work is on identifying breakthrough opportunities such as the use of precision fermentation to produce added value nutritious lipids, AI-driven prediction of lipid performance and stability, and new ways to incorporate healthier fats in foods. I have always believed that science becomes truly meaningful when it is translated into products and solutions that benefit people. Throughout my career, this belief has guided many of my achievements, from developing analytical methods used across the food industry, to creating internal policies on nutritionally relevant lipids, or supporting the launch of products backed by strong nutritional evidence. I have also been deeply engaged

in large initiatives across Nestlé to formulate products with healthy fats and oils, improve the authenticity of raw materials, and bring cuttingedge nutrition science to the market. A central part of innovation is connection, building bridges between ideas, disciplines, institutions, and people. I have spent much of my career building strategic partnerships and ecosystems, leading collaborations with universities, startups, and public private funding initiatives, that

accelerate advances in food research across the world. I have always valued open innovation, and I believe that the best solutions come when scientists, industry and universities learn from one another. Guiding the professional development of others has also been a priority for me. Over the years, I have coached and mentored many young scientists and managers. Seeing them