Industry News

WFFC’s Educational Seminar a Success

The annual seminar was designed to equip the next generation of industry leaders with the tools, insights and inspiration needed to thrive in an evolving flavor and fragrance landscape.

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By: Lianna Albrizio

Associate Editor

Women in Flavor and Fragrance Commerce (WFFC), a leading professional organization dedicated to educating, engaging and empowering professionals in the flavor and fragrance industry, presented its 2026 Educational Seminar titled “Catalysts for Change: Advancing Tomorrow’s F&F Industry Innovators,” on March 26 at the Hilton Hasbrouck Heights/Meadowlands.

Mark Knitowski, fragrance consultant and brand builder, shared his journey from the corporate fragrance world to becoming a consultant for brands and startups.

The annual seminar, hosted by the WFFC New Jersey Chapter, was designed to equip the next generation of industry leaders with the tools, insights, and inspiration needed to seize opportunities and thrive in an ever-evolving flavor and fragrance landscape. Open to both members and guests, the program united executives, founders, consultants, marketers, and educators to share real-world lessons and fresh perspectives.

“Catalysts for Change” aims to accelerate professional growth and inspire a diverse community of flavor and fragrance professionals to lead with confidence, creativity, and purpose. Whether advancing within a corporation, exploring entrepreneurship, or guiding emerging talent, the seminar offered actionable insights that empowered attendees at every stage of their career.

Seminar Highlights

Unshakeable self-assurance and navigating career transitions were presented by Suzanne C. Johnson, vice president R&D, NA Consumer, McCormick & Co., Inc., and Mark Knitowski, fragrance consultant and brand builder.

Mindy Yang, founder and owner, Perfumarie, shared her entrepreneurial journey in building and sustaining a successful brand in the F&F space.

Jillian Hermanowicz, chief marketing officer, Vibrant Ingredients, will discuss transforming legacy brands to meet tomorrow’s market demands.

A panel discussion on entrepreneurship was led by Emily Bond, co-founder, CEO, Lotus Bridge Strategic Partners; Ilina Luthraa, founder, Roster Radio; and Amy Marks-McGee, founder, Trendincite, and moderated by Marie Wright, co-founder, Mystic Flavours. Another panel dedicated to community building and the essential role of mentorship in nurturing industry talent featured Ildiko Juhasz, associate professor, Fashion Institute of Technology; Neha Okhade, perfumer, Agilex Fragrances; and Beverly J. Tepper, Ph.D., Professor, Rutgers University, and was moderated by Jenna Troyli, co-founder, Noted.

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