Dr. Julie Simonson – Vice-President of R&D Product Innovation, Schwan’s Julie is Vice President of R&D Product Innovation at Schwan’s Company, an affiliate of CJ ChielJedang Corporation. She leads a multi-site product development team responsible for product design from concept through commercialization for all Schwan’s Company’s business units, channels, and food categories. She also champions new category innovations, open innovation initiatives, and nutrition strategy to advance the company’s growth strategy. Julie’s passion for sustainability while previously leading R&D Technology Development for Schwan’s resulted in her co-leading the MBOLD initiative to champion a circular economy for packaging and flexible film in the Upper Midwest region. Julie began her career with Kraft Foods, where she spent 17 years in progressive R&D roles in numerous categories within the U.S. and then Europe. She joined Campbell Soup Company in 2008 as R&D Vice President for North America Soup, Sauces, and Beverages and then moved to leading Global Science and Technology prior to joining Schwan’s Company in 2012. She earned her Doctorate in Food Science from the University of Minnesota – Twin Cities and her Bachelor of Science degree in Food Science from Iowa State University.