Research and development

John 

• Technology director, Cargill Cocoa and Chocolate 
• Manages technical service and applications teams; leads new technology and innovation 
• At Cargill since 1993. Based in Lititz, Pennsylvania, U.S. 

Why did you join Cargill? 

I was looking for a large global company that would offer career development opportunities. The focus Cargill had on people and safety and ethics made me certain I had found the right company. 

What kinds of problems do you help solve? 

I am focused on building a portfolio of longer-term innovation projects that can deliver solutions to the customer and high returns to our business. We are also helping customers with a range of problems, from simple to complex. 

What is it like to work in R&D at Cargill? 

I have had a lot of different experiences while still working for the same company with many of the same people. Over the past 16 years, I have been a quality assurance chemist, a microbiologist responsible for food safety and fermentation, a quality assurance manager and a technical manager of beverage applications – and now I have a new role. I have worked in Iowa, Nebraska, Minnesota and Pennsylvania. I started up two new plants – corn milling and erythritol in Nebraska – and a beverage applications capability in Minneapolis. I was part of a joint venture with Mitsubishi to build the first erythritol plant outside of Japan. Plus, I have traveled all over America, Europe and Asia. 

What keeps you at Cargill? 

I am curious about new things and Cargill is always changing. I now also enjoy helping other people to reach their potential. Also, I have always been treated fairly. 

What might you tell someone interested in an opportunity in Cargill R&D? 

What are you waiting for? We need your help!