Kalsec appoints new vice presidents to lead EMEA and Asia Pacific regions
The Michigan-based natural ingredients supplier has expanded its leadership team with two industry veterans to strengthen its global presence and drive regional growth in key markets across Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Asia Pacific.
Priyadarshini Sharma
Sofiane Ouffa
Kalsec Inc., a provider of natural taste, sensory solutions, food protection, colours and advanced hops ingredients, has appointed two new vice presidents to its leadership team. Sofiane Ouffa joins as Vice President and Managing Director of Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA), while Priyadarshini Sharma takes on the role of Vice President and Managing Director of Asia Pacific (APAC).
Strategic expansion supports regional manufacturing capabilities
The appointments come at a significant time for Kalsec, which has recently established new manufacturing centres in both the UK and Singapore. These facilities are designed to strengthen the company’s ability to serve regional and global customers with locally produced natural ingredient solutions.
“Sofiane’s and Priya’s leadership will be key to our strategic plan to accelerate growth in Europe and Asia, as well as fulfil Kalsec’s mission of unlocking the potential of people, nature and science to nourish the world,” said Julie Heine, President and Chief Commercial Officer of Kalsec.
Commercial expertise from food and beverage sectors
Ouffa brings nearly 20 years of experience in commercial roles to Kalsec, most notably with chocolate and cocoa manufacturer Barry Callebaut, where he rose to Managing Director for Africa. His background includes establishing new markets across Africa and strengthening business operations in Canada.
Known for his commercially oriented leadership approach, Ouffa has demonstrated proficiency in product portfolio management, team building, and leveraging organisational capabilities to drive growth and profitability. His multilingual skills have enabled him to build strong connections with customers and distributors from diverse backgrounds.
Food industry experience in Asian markets
Sharma joins Kalsec from McCormick, where she served as Managing Director for India and Southeast Asia, successfully overseeing both consumer and industrial business segments. Her prior experience includes senior commercial and marketing positions at Carlsberg in China and Hong Kong, as well as roles with P&G in Singapore and PepsiCo in India.
With a proven track record in profit and loss management and driving profitable growth across APAC, Sharma brings valuable regional expertise to Kalsec. Her leadership style emphasises building strong relationships and mutual trust with stakeholders.
Natural ingredients portfolio serves global food and beverage industries
Kalsec specialises in natural ingredient solutions that help food and beverage manufacturers improve product appearance, taste, and shelf life. The company’s portfolio includes natural flavour solutions, antioxidants, colours, and hop-derived ingredients for the brewing sector.
As a certified B Corp, Kalsec emphasises ethical and sustainable business practices that benefit customers, employees, communities, and the environment. The family-owned company has been headquartered in Kalamazoo, Michigan since its founding in 1958 and has steadily expanded its global presence with regional offices, laboratories and sales teams across North America, Europe and Asia.
- For more information, visit: kalsec.com
