We are thrilled to shine the spotlight on Colleen Madden, the Vice President of Innovation at CK Ingredients, as our May Spotlight Award Winner. This recognition is part of our ongoing commitment at Females in Food to honor women who are making significant contributions to the food and beverage industry.
With experience of over two decades, Colleen has been at the forefront of innovation within the North American food and nutraceutical industries. Her career is marked by a string of successful product launches and the introduction of cutting-edge ingredients that meet the growing demands for functional and sustainable foods. Under Colleen’s leadership, CK Ingredients has not just kept pace with trends but often stayed several steps ahead, particularly in areas like plant-based proteins and minimally processed food ingredients. Over the last 7.5 years, she has spearheaded the launch of more than 27 novel food and nutraceutical ingredients, each backed by solid human clinical research. Colleen’s impact on business growth is also undeniable. Since taking on new accounts, her sales portfolio at CK Ingredients has expanded by over 10% annually. This growth not only highlights her skill in navigating market complexities but also her exceptional ability to foster and maintain strong customer relationships. However, what really sets Colleen apart is her profound empathy and dedication to customer satisfaction. She is known for her meticulous attention to the needs of both existing and prospective clients, offering unparalleled support through sales insights, marketing, R&D, and innovative practices.
Colleen’s advocacy for gender equality and the advancement of women in the food and beverage sector is so inspiring. She is a mentor to numerous young women entrepreneurs and actively participates in various organizations that promote innovation and education within the industry. Through initiatives like the IFT and WFIM, she supports educational programs aimed at advancing women’s careers in this field. Furthermore, her engaging video content on women’s health and wellness reaches over 15,000 followers across platforms like LinkedIn, extending her influence and inspiring a broader audience. Colleen is also passionate about nurturing future generations, teaching ‘Food Science is Cool’ lessons to elementary and middle school students, thereby planting the seeds for a future rich in skilled and motivated Females in Food.
Colleen’s work not only enriches the health and wellness of consumers but also paves the way for a more inclusive and innovative industry where women can excel and lead.
As we celebrate Colleen Madden’s accomplishments, we are reminded of the powerful impact that dedicated, innovative, and empathetic leaders can have on their industries and communities. Colleen is not just shaping the present—she is also inspiring a brighter, more equitable future for all women in food and beverage.
Please join us in congratulating Colleen Madden, a deserving winner of our May Spotlight Award, and a sterling example of leadership and commitment in the food and beverage industry.
