Perfetti Van Melle USA hired Sylvia Buxton as its new Vice President of Marketing. Buxton is a strategic global marketing executive bringing more than 25 years of dedicated experience in fast moving consumer goods to the maker of Mentos and Airheads. Most recently, Buxton led a team of marketers in the strategy and marketing of Hershey's chocolate brands in Canada, Latin America and World Travel Retail. Buxton also has extensive innovation experience, successfully launching new brands and line extensions for both Hershey and Reckitt Benckiser.

"Sylvia's collaborative leadership style, innovative strategic thinking, and understanding of the unique nuances of fast-moving, confectioner marketing will be valuable as our brands continue to grow in North America," states Mehmet Yuksek, President and CEO of Perfetti Van Melle, North America. "Since Sylvia's global marketing experience spans several fast moving consumer good categories, she will be able to share insights with our team that will further enhance our relationships with our consumers."

Talent strategy and executive search firm Centennial conducted Perfetti Van Melle's search for the position. "Sylvia's passion for the industry, her accomplishments within it, and her reputation for building team synergy aligns well with the chemistry of Perfetti's executive team, making her the right fit for the role," states Mike Sipple Jr., Centennial President. "Sylvia's experience-fueled energy and enthusiasm for innovation will not only enhance Perfetti's corporate culture, but their industry momentum as well."