October 14/Chemical & Chemistry Business -- Blue Pacific Flavors has hired industry veteran Chris Long as executive vice president and general manager of the company's manufacturing and flavor processing at corporate headquarters in City of Industry, California.

In his new role, Long is responsible for solidifying and growing business in Blue Pacific's North American markets while leveraging the company's core strengths and leadership in true-to-fruit flavor authenticity with its exclusive hortRealfruit flavor technology developed through a license agreement with Plant & Food Research New Zealand (formerly HortResearch).

"Chris brings a great deal of proven expertise in streamlining manufacturing and quality control processes for flavor houses and we are looking forward to him applying that same discipline here," said Blue Pacific Flavors CEO Donald Wilkes. "We are a world-class flavor and ingredients company comprised of a team with a focus on innovative solutions for our clients and Chris' leadership will help our team build on this mission."

Prior to joining Blue Pacific Flavors, Long held the position of general manager, west coast flavors at Kerry Ingredients and Flavors (Master Taste) where he led all aspects of manufacturing, flavor sales, R&D, quality assurance and finance. He brings many years of successful experience with growing sales and profit within the food ingredient manufacturing industry.

"Blue Pacific is uniquely positioned for leadership and growth in the flavor ingredients market," said Chris Long. "I am excited to work with a team that has the talent to innovate true, authentic flavor solutions for its clients."

From the October 26, 2009, Prepared Foods E-dition