“We’ve found an individual with the depth and breadth of experience needed to take us to the next level,” says TIC Gums president Greg Andon. “Amy’s experience in operations, marketing, and revenue generation only serves to compliment her already impressive track record in sales.”

McDonald’s career actually began at a work bench in the labs of former fragrance and flavor giant Quest International. She served in various capacities at Quest, working in technology, marketing, and sales, ultimately becoming responsible for North and South American operations as vice president for its Ingredients Division.

Following Quest’s Ingredient Division acquisition by Kerry, later named Kerry Bio-Science, McDonald stayed on as vice president Americas with direct management of both the Americas, as well as the company's global pharmaceutical business.

“I have a great amount of respect for TIC Gums' focus on customers and in finding solutions that meet their needs,” says McDonald. “This company has a long tradition of responding to clients’ needs quickly and thoroughly. My role will be to reinforce the message that we’re a company that not only develops breakthroughs in food science, but also works with customers to ensure our products meet existing as well as future needs.”

McDonald’s focus will be a higher and broader level of relationships at key customers. Crucial to this effort is TIC Gums' sales team.

“Sales is a competitive field, too often based on individual achievement,” says McDonald. “Our team will perform at the highest level but will also honor a commitment to leverage strengths in each other as we work together to generate revenue and move the company forward.”

From the February 7, 2011, Prepared Foods E-dition