Hilhorst will play a leading role in executing the Danone Group’s R&I strategy, reporting to the chief research, innovation and food quality safety officer, Isabelle Esser.
With a career in research and innovation spanning over 30 years, Hilhorst brings a wealth of diverse food science experience. She joins Danone from her position at Unilever, where she was chief R&D officer of the nutrition business group.
Her new role will be based at Danone’s Global Research & Innovation Center in Utrecht, The Netherlands.
Her appointment comes at the same time Danone looks to strengthen its efforts on its presence and investments in research and innovation, and embed science into its core business model.
Commenting on the news, Hillhorst said she was proud to a part of the team and looks forward to pushing the Group’s ambitions ahead.
“This is a real opportunity to explore promising new avenues, in terms of categories and geographies, to meet the needs of consumers and patients. Danone is a unique company with a pioneering spirit, and I am thrilled to be joining as it works to transform its sector,” she continued.
"We are delighted to welcome an experienced, high-calibre profile like Carla's to our team,” added Esser. “Her rich international experience in research and development in the food sector will be an asset in deploying our ambitions to remain at the forefront of our market, as we enter the next chapter of our Renew strategy.”
Meanwhile, the British Nutrition Foundation has appointed Cathy Capelin as strategic project manager.
Capelin brings with her more than 25 years of food and drink research experience. She will join the business in September, departing from her role as head of health and sustainable consumption at IGD. Prior to this, she led the nutrition and public sector division at Kantar Worldpanel for more than 10 years.
“We are excited to welcome Cathy Capelin to our team,” said Elaine Hindal, chief executive of the British Nutrition Foundation. “Her expertise and dedication to transforming food systems align perfectly with our mission to help everyone have a healthy and sustainable diet. We are confident that Cathy will drive our strategic initiatives forward and help us achieve our goals.”
In her new role, Capelin will oversee the development and implementation of strategic projects aimed at changing the food environment, working with our members from the food industry and other stakeholders.
“I am delighted to be joining the British Nutrition Foundation and look forward to contributing to their work on changing the food environment,” added Capelin. “This is an exciting opportunity to work with a dynamic team and leverage my experience to drive impactful change. I look forward to advancing our strategic projects and making a positive difference.”
In other news, Pets Choice has acquired a vegan dog food manufacturer.
