Anton Vincent, president of Mars Snacking, North America and Global Ice Cream, has been named the 2026 Kettle Award recipient by the National Confectionery Sales Association, the Newark, New Jersey-based organization announced Feb. 3.
The Kettle Award honors outstanding contributions to the confectionery industry across education and personnel training, energy and environmental sustainability, and product innovation. The award will be formally presented May 19 at the 80th Kettle Awards at the Las Vegas Convention Center.
Leadership Impact
Vincent became president of Mars Snacking, North America, nearly seven years ago. During his tenure, he has driven growth in the business, repositioned the company’s largest consumer portfolio and fostered the development of thousands of associates across regional and global Mars teams. Vincent also leads cross-company reputation building in the United States.
“I am incredibly honored to receive this year’s Kettle Award and join the ranks of other distinguished confectionery powerhouses,” Vincent said.
“This award is a recognition of the tireless efforts of our Associates who have helped position our iconic snacking portfolio for continued growth. It is a core belief at Mars that the world we want tomorrow starts with how we do business today, and I am energized to see what’s ahead.”
Under Vincent’s leadership, Mars has advanced key initiatives including a $2 billion investment in U.S. manufacturing. He also serves as a mentor for Unreasonable Food, advising startups on how to scale their sustainable food innovations.
“The Kettle Award was created 80 years ago to honor leaders who don’t just drive growth but also shape the future of our industry – and that is precisely what Anton has done,” said Teresa Tarantino, executive director of NCSA. “His forward-thinking leadership has delivered impressive results for some of the most beloved confectionery brands while consistently prioritizing people and progress. We are proud to celebrate his impact this year.”
Vincent was named one of Savoy Magazine’s Most Influential Black Executives in Corporate America and earned the 2023 NCA Distinguished Service Award. He is a founding member of Black Executive CMO Alliance, a Distinguished Alumni for Sam Houston State University and Indiana University, and an NCA Board of Trustees member.
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