Great leaders do more than solve technical problems—they anticipate challenges, recognize opportunities, and connect scientific work to broader business objectives. In this product, learners will explore the foundations of strategic thinking, including trend analysis, environmental scanning, and long-term planning. Participants will learn how to move beyond day-to-day execution and develop a broader organizational perspective that contributes to sustainable business success.
Learner Outcomes
After completing this product, learners will be able to:
- Explain the role of strategic thinking in food science leadership.
- Identify external trends, risks, and opportunities that may impact their organization.
- Apply systems-thinking concepts to connect technical decisions with business outcomes.
- Evaluate how scientific expertise can contribute to long-term organizational strategy.
Speakers
Brendan Niemira, PhD
Chief Science & Technology Officer, Institute of Food Technologists (IFT)
Dr. Niemira serves as IFT's Chief Science & Technology Officer, providing scientific leadership across the organization. Prior to joining IFT, he spent more than 25 years as a research microbiologist and lead scientist with the USDA Agricultural Research Service. He is an IFT Fellow, former IFT Board member, and past Chair of the Biotechnology Division. Throughout his career, he has contributed extensively to food science research, scientific communication, and professional leadership development.
Jeff Varcoe, PhD
Vice President, Quality Assurance & Food Safety, The J.M. Smucker Company
Dr. Varcoe is Vice President of Quality Assurance & Food Safety at The J.M. Smucker Co. In this role, he oversees quality systems, food safety programs, and regulatory excellence across a large consumer packaged goods portfolio. He joins the series to provide practical perspectives on strategic thinking, decision-making, and leadership within complex food organizations.
Sean Leighton
Global Vice President, Food Safety, Quality & Regulatory, Cargill
Sean Leighton serves as Global Vice President of Food Safety, Quality & Regulatory at Cargill, leading efforts to ensure the safety, quality, and integrity of the global food supply. He is a longtime leader within the food science profession, having served as IFT President and currently as IFT Treasurer. His experience spans global operations, strategic leadership, risk management, and organizational transformation.
Upon completion of any online course, you will be able to view and print a personalized Certificate of Completion. You will have access to this course for one year from the date of purchase.
Great leaders do more than solve technical problems—they anticipate challenges, recognize opportunities, and connect scientific work to broader business objectives. In this product, learners will explore the foundations of strategic thinking, including trend analysis, environmental scanning, and long-term planning. Participants will learn how to move beyond day-to-day execution and develop a broader organizational perspective that contributes to sustainable business success.
Learner Outcomes
After completing this product, learners will be able to:
- Explain the role of strategic thinking in food science leadership.
- Identify external trends, risks, and opportunities that may impact their organization.
- Apply systems-thinking concepts to connect technical decisions with business outcomes.
- Evaluate how scientific expertise can contribute to long-term organizational strategy.
Speakers
Brendan Niemira, PhD
Chief Science & Technology Officer, Institute of Food Technologists (IFT)
Dr. Niemira serves as IFT's Chief Science & Technology Officer, providing scientific leadership across the organization. Prior to joining IFT, he spent more than 25 years as a research microbiologist and lead scientist with the USDA Agricultural Research Service. He is an IFT Fellow, former IFT Board member, and past Chair of the Biotechnology Division. Throughout his career, he has contributed extensively to food science research, scientific communication, and professional leadership development.
Jeff Varcoe, PhD
Vice President, Quality Assurance & Food Safety, The J.M. Smucker Company
Dr. Varcoe is Vice President of Quality Assurance & Food Safety at The J.M. Smucker Co. In this role, he oversees quality systems, food safety programs, and regulatory excellence across a large consumer packaged goods portfolio. He joins the series to provide practical perspectives on strategic thinking, decision-making, and leadership within complex food organizations.
Sean Leighton
Global Vice President, Food Safety, Quality & Regulatory, Cargill
Sean Leighton serves as Global Vice President of Food Safety, Quality & Regulatory at Cargill, leading efforts to ensure the safety, quality, and integrity of the global food supply. He is a longtime leader within the food science profession, having served as IFT President and currently as IFT Treasurer. His experience spans global operations, strategic leadership, risk management, and organizational transformation.
Upon completion of any online course, you will be able to view and print a personalized Certificate of Completion. You will have access to this course for one year from the date of purchase.
