FORD GUM & MACHINE COMPANY – Lincolnshire, ILDirector of Marketing and New Product Development, Gum & Confection Novelties (2006 – December 2017)Lead all marketing initiatives for established confectionery manufacturer, focusing on product development of retail line with emphasis on candy/toy/package design and creation, management of product line, license identification and acquisition, and expansion of seasonal lines. Participate on management team, providing marketing expertise to support aggressive growth plans. Complete responsibility for imports including identifying and managing China suppliers, creative product design and engineering, negotiating component costs, managing quality assurance, and directing import logistics.

PROCESSED PLASTIC COMPANY – Montgomery, IL Created comprehensive marketing plans and directed all aspects of product line definition and development for mid-size toy manufacturer’s portfolio of brands, including; created brand strategy, managed multiple projects, organized and trained team to meet time and budget constraints, and identified opportunities in the market through various research means. Supported and grew sales through key account presentations, broker training, and creation of sales material.