Bell Flavors & Fragrances is proud to announce two of the newest inductees into the 2018 Candy Hall of Fame, hosted by the National Confectionery Sales Association, are from their organization. James Heinz, Bell’s Chief Executive Officer and Laura Christian, National Accounts Manager in the flavor division, were recognized for their achievements as industry leaders on October 19th-21st at the Renaissance Tampa International Plaza Hotel, among hundreds of NCSA members. They were nominated and selected from a mix of industry allies who have recognized the work and dedication they put into the confectionery industry and were named as two of eight inductees from the same company.
James Heinz has worked in the candy industry since 1971 at Bell Flavors & Fragrances, headquartered in Northbrook, IL. He, along with his siblings, became more involved in the company and eventually ran the business together. James was named as Bell’s President in 1995 and CEO in 1997, and has expanded the company internationally. He holds leadership positions within several industry associations, and he also participates as a volunteer and contributor for Feed the Hungry, Riverside Foundation, and Saint Jude’s Hospital. “It is an honor to be inducted into the Candy Hall of Fame after all the years working with the confectionary industry with Bell Flavors & Fragrances”, quoted James Heinz.
Laura has worked at Bell Flavors & Fragrances since 1981 and started volunteering within industry organizations shortly after her career took off. She believes in continuing to support education and growth in the industry. Laura mentors and participates in student outreach programs, including the Sweets & Snacks Expo Mentor Guide for the Confectionery Foundation’s Next Generation Program in 2018. “Throughout my career in the confectionery and food industry, I’ve grown professionally and personally due to the industry icons I’ve had the pleasure to meet and work with,” says Laura. “Bell has provided me the opportunity to be involved in the confectionery industry – which I love – and has fully supported me as I’ve grown and evolved. I am honored to have been nominated and inducted, and it’s such a privilege to be part of this prestigious group of dedicated confectionery professionals.”
The National Confectionery Sales Association has been in existence for over one hundred years and has been sponsoring the Candy Hall of Fame since 1971. This induction marks the 199th anniversary and the 47th induction weekend. The organization encourages growth and acceptance of confectionery products in the industry through educational tools, constructive dialogue, and acknowledgements of accomplishments. James Heinz’ brother Raymond Heinz, President of Bell EMEA, was also inducted into the NCSA Candy Hall of Fame in 2009. President and CEO of NCSA, John Leipold Jr. states “Our Association and the Candy Hall of Fame have built a lasting legacy and we are committed to supporting this great industry through recognition, fellowship, education, and mentoring.”
Bell Flavors and Fragrances, Inc. is a leader in the flavor and fragrance industry. With eleven manufacturing plants across the globe, as well as over 40 sales offices around the world, Bell has the ability to create the flavor, fragrance, or botanical for any application.