IFT FIRST, which stands for “Food Improved by Research, Science, and Technology,” brings together global food industry professionals to explore cutting-edge innovations and scientific solutions. Taking place from July 14-17, 2024, at McCormick Place in Chicago, this conference provides the opportunity to engage with over 1,000 exhibitors, participate in impactful discussions, and experience the latest advancements in food science and technology.
How Can Cross-Functional Teams Move From Competitive Work to Collaborative Problem-Solving to Achieve Successful Results?
Curion is participating in a 7-person panel discussion at this year’s IFT FIRST conference. The panel will explore strategies for effective cross-functional collaboration in organizations, with Michael Nestrud from Curion highlighting the link between well-coordinated teams and delightful consumer experiences. Attendees will learn how consumer-centric design benefits from collaborative efforts, contrasting this with the confusing experiences often resulting from siloed organizational structures.
IFT FIRST Panel Abstract:
A critical aspect for successful organizations is the ability to collaborate effectively across disciplines to drive innovation and achieve organizational goals. When multiple departments, each with their own expertise, work together to achieve a shared goal and transition from competitive work dynamics to collaborative problem-solving, this drives meaningful results in your organization. Join us during this Scientific & Technical Forum where attendees will learn different frameworks and real-world examples of fostering a collaborative culture within cross-functional teams. From breaking down silos to fostering open communication and trust, attendees will gain valuable insights into building cohesive teams that thrive on collective problem-solving.
Session:
- Tuesday, July 16 at 10:45 AM – 12:00 PM CST | McCormick Place, Room S404
Speakers:
- Michael Nestrud, PhD – Vice President, Research & Innovation at Curion Insights
- Dawn Bohn, PhD – Teaching Associate Professor at the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign
- Jeffrey Scott, PhD – Director, Food and Beverage at Target
- Lauren Shimek, PhD – CEO at Food.Tech.Design
- Lawrence Blume, PhD – Food & Ag Sector Lead at RTI Innovation Advisors
Session Hosts:
- Valéria Acquarone, PhD – Open Innovation Americas Lead at Ferrero
- Shihyu Chuang, PhD, RD – Postdoctoral Research Associate, Department of Food Science at the University of Massachusetts Amherst
About IFT:
The Institute of Food Technologists (IFT) is a global organization at the forefront of food science and technology since 1939. This organization is a hub for food professionals, scientists, and technologists to collaborate, share knowledge, and drive innovation in the food industry. For the sensory science industry, IFT plays a vital role through its Sensory & Consumer Sciences Division, which brings together experts to discuss the latest research and insights regarding the measurement, analysis, and interpretation of human responses to food products. Through IFT’s spotlight on sensory science, they provide access to cutting-edge research, networking opportunities, and industry best practices that can enhance sensory evaluation capabilities and contribute to product success in a competitive market.
About Curion:
Curion specializes in delivering impactful insights to the world’s top CPG companies, helping them develop winning, repeatedly purchased products. Curion’s deep data-driven product insights, sensory expertise, and state-of-the-art consumer centers enable them to uncover responses to critical client objectives. With over five decades of experience in the product testing industry, Curion is dedicated to guiding clients with their proprietary XP Xperience Performance platform, connecting brands to consumers at every step.
An innovator in the industry, Curion recently developed a groundbreaking benchmarking product testing method, the Curion Score™, which has become a trusted and sought after tool within the industry. As one of the largest product and consumer insights companies in the U.S., Curion has built a reputation for excellence and trust among the world’s leading consumer brands. Curion’s commitment to innovation and expertise, coupled with a passion for delivering actionable insights, makes Curion a valuable partner for companies looking to develop and launch successful products.
