Trend/Foresight Work Experience
Significant experience using syndicated platforms (Mintel, Datassential, Innova, MRI-Simmons, Innova, Trend Hunter, Trend Hub, etc.) and other credible sources (trade pubs, government resources, etc.) to study macroforces, consumers, and innovations signaling immediate and future opportunities in food/drink. Brings narratives to life with clear flow and creativity for audience engagement, understanding and inspiration for action.
National Brand of Bread & Sweet Goods
Identified four key consumer trends for 2009, created a perspective on each dimension and led a team of Consumer Insight colleagues in the presentation of these to kick-off the Annual Operating Plan (AOP) process. Anchored the trends (Need for Authenticity, Stop-and-Go Lives, Experience Seeking and Wellness) to a compass (North, South, East and West) to tell a story of the organization setting a course for the future with some tailwinds (great people, great brands, strong pipeline) but some rough waters ahead (economy, competition, media fragmentation).
And…
Created and presented macrotrends to educate and inspire on Innovation “Immersion Day.”
Built and presented a perspective on health and wellness trends for the Bakery R&D Annual Offsite, also for innovation.
International Sauce Brand
In 2011, using the portfolio of Mintel tools (Consumer “Oxygen” Reports, GNPD and Inspire), developed and presented a point-of-view addressing the changes in household composition (non-traditional families), the value offerings in demand (affordable indulgences, right size and concentrated formulae) and how and consumers are staying connected (sharing opinions and talents online beyond immediate circle). Opening slide for each section showcased the topic’s past, present and future.
National Grocery Chain
In 2011, to inspire product and service ideas for a grocery chain, studied marketplace and new product evolutions and developed 9 ideation platforms, including: “Dinner in 1, 2, 3,” “Preparations that make the meal,” “Freshly made,” and “Authentic Ethnic.” Final report featured, for each platform, the target market, the inspiration, the details and the opportunity/possible activation.
Processor of Snack and Baking Nuts (j
Multinational Breakfast Brand
Developed and led a multi-year Foresight Program for a cereal and snack bar manufacturer to immerse the organization in trend-driven planning. Demonstrated the imminent opportunities in innovating with pure ingredients and “fuel for the body” in mind. Presented to the marketing organization and senior leadership. Ran a workshop (with trend tables, tastings and ideation) on the five customized opportunity areas to ignite new thinking.