Gene Ford

Gene Ford has extensive experience in research and development, innovation, and leadership roles in various companies. Gene is currently the Vice President of Research & Development and Head of the Nutrition Innovation Center at Standard Process Inc. In this role, they shape the company's research and development strategy and oversees its execution. Prior to joining Standard Process, Gene served as an Advisor for Board Governance at Spectrum Health, where they played a key role in redesigning the board structure for the organization. Before that, they worked as a Senior Consultant for the West Michigan Food Processors Association, where they focused on reducing food insecurity and creating food business growth opportunities. Gene also held leadership positions at Nestlé, where they served as Chairman/President of Nestle Nutrition R&D Centers Inc and as Vice President of Research & Development and Head of NDC Fremont. Gene was responsible for driving innovation and managing global product innovation teams. Gene also worked as the Director of R&D, Product Development at Ocean Spray Cranberries, where they led the development of new products and ingredients. Gene'scareer began at Campbell Soup Company, where they held various roles in research and development, operations, and business over a span of more than 20 years.

Gene Ford attended Michigan State University from 1979 to 1983, where they earned a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in Food Engineering and Food Science. Gene then went on to pursue a Master of Science (MS) degree in the same field at Michigan State University from 1983 to 1984. In 1990, Gene Ford enrolled at The Wharton School, where they completed a degree program in Management of Technology, known as an Executive Master of Science in Engineering (ExMSE), in 1992. Gene later attended The Wharton School again in 2005 for an Advanced Management Program (AMP48) in Advanced Management.