TEL AVIV, ISRAEL – Animal-free dairy developer Remilk added three global food industry experts to its board of directors, appointing Alicia Enciso, recent chief marketing officer at Nestle USA; Floris Wesseling, recent president of Danone Europe; and Pedro Padierna, former chief executive officer and chairman of PepsiCo Mexico.
Remilk produces what it calls dairy identical milk proteins through a proprietary fermentation process. The company said its new board members are expected to provide access, insight and expertise.
Tomer Harpaz, executive chairman of Remilk’s board, said the company aims to “replace animal agriculture as the primary source of protein for the dairy industry.”
"In pursuit of ambitious aspirations and purpose, there comes a responsibility to anticipate challenges,” Harpaz said. “The addition of Alicia, Floris and Pedro to the board of directors provides Remilk valuable perspective and expertise with which to navigate the complex global food landscape. The aligned aspirations and shared strategic priorities of this remarkable board further bolsters Remilk's ability to become a driving force within the dairy industry."
Enciso’s experience in the industry includes building brands and tapping into consumer needs, creating high-growth strategies and promoting shifts toward sustainability-focused practices. At Nestle USA she served as president of the beverages division. Enciso also recently joined the board of directors at Bacardi.
Wesseling possesses 25 years of experience in the consumer goods industry and Remilk shared that he has led businesses through different growth phases and understands consumer demand in the realm of both traditional and alternative dairy. He most recently worked on Danone’s executive committee as president for its Europe business.
Padierna spent 30-plus years with PepsiCo, taking on senior roles that covered areas such as research and development, marketing, government affairs and public policy. Remilk said his expertise will be instrumental as the company continues to secure regulatory approvals around the world.
"We are thankful for the incredible commitment Alicia, Floris and Pedro are making to Remilk and gratified that decorated global leaders from across the food and beverage category are aligned with our mission," said Aviv Wolff, co-founder and CEO of Remilk. "With guidance from this outstanding board of directors, Remilk's transformative vision can become a global on-shelf reality at the scale and speed required to address a pressing need. It is a true privilege to work alongside the leaders who helped build some of the largest food and beverage companies in the world."