February 5, 2016

The American Institute of Baking announced Thursday, that it would be making changes to four international leadership positions.

These changes include new job roles for Stephanie Lopez, Maureen Olewnik and Jeff Wilson, as well as the addition of Alfonso Capuchino to the AIB team.

Former Vice President of Food Safety Education Stephanie Lopez, who has held various titles with AIB, is now the vice president of food safety services, Americas. Lopez has been a leading force in the food safety industry, contributing to important technical publications and speaking at industry events.

Maureen Owelnik, Ph.D., will leave her role as senior vice president of food safety services and become the principal of industry of affairs. Owelnik’s past as a chemist combined with her more recent work in food safety at AIB will allow her to make connections that will strengthen alliances for the association. Her 34 years with the institute and her expertise have made her a well-respected member of the food and beverage industry.

Jeff Wilson will step into the role of vice president for the Europe, Asia and Africa division of AIB. Formerly, Wilson worked as the general manager for the Europe, Middle East and Africa region at AIB. Wilson’s past experience is expected to expand and strengthen AIB’s international focus.

Newcomer Alfonso Capuchino will take over the role of general manager of AIBI Certification Services, a subsidiary of AIB International. Prior to this role, Capuchino worked as the lead auditor at British Retail Consortium. Capuchino has more than 25 years of experience in the food and beverage industry working as an auditor and technical manager for various global entities.

President and CEO of AIB International, Andre Biane, says that change is necessary for AIB as the institute needs to adapt to meet the needs of the industry and that these new appointments will be the key to continuing AIB’s “legacy of ensuring safety quality food worldwide.”