Mary Wagner

Dr. Wagner is President of MK Wagner & Associates Inc., a global food science management consulting firm that specializes in R&D strategic leadership for corporations of all sizes.

Prior to starting MK Wagner & Associates Inc., Dr. Wagner was the Senior VP of Global Product Innovation, Food Safety and Quality at Starbucks Coffee Company. She has also worked as General Manager of Mars, Inc. and Chief Technology and Quality Officer at both E&J Gallo Winery and Taco Bell.

Dr. Wagner has extensive experience in creating innovative products, managing risks, handling corporate crises, and managing food quality and safety. She is well known throughout the food industry and has served as President of the Institute of Food Technologies and Chair of the National Grape and Wine Initiative. Dr. Wagner was also appointed by the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture as Co-Chair of the USDA Advisory Board on Agricultural Research, Extension, Education, and Economics.

Dr. Wagner is a graduate of Iowa State University (Bachelor of Science and Masters of Science), and has a Ph.D. from the University of Minnesota.