The National Confectionery Sales Association has elected four confectionery industry leaders to its board of directors. Raul Francisco of HWY Partners and Ryan Miller of Spangler Candy Company join for the first time, while Mike Gilroy of Mars Snacking and Scott Miller of Spangler Candy have been re-elected to second terms.
“We are pleased to welcome Raul and Ryan to the board and congratulate Mike and Scott on their re-election,” said Byard Ebling, incoming chairman of the NCSA. “Their experience and perspectives will help guide the NCSA as we continue to strengthen industry relationships and advance the programs that bring our confectionery community together.”
Francisco, managing partner of HWY Partners’ Metro New York office, oversees special markets for Premier Specialty and brings more than 20 years of confectionery experience. Ryan Miller, VP of supply chain at Spangler, has spent 18 years with the candy maker. Gilroy, VP of industry engagement and sponsorship for Mars Snacking, brings nearly 30 years of sales experience spanning confectionery, snacking, pet nutrition and food. Scott Miller, a member of Spangler’s senior leadership team, has more than 35 years in CPG and confectionery.
Continuing on the board are Steve Casey, Melville Candy Co.; Cody Heinz, Bell Flavors & Fragrances; Peter Kempton Jr., b.a. Sweetie Candy Company; and Stacey Rutherford, Burdette Beckmann Inc. The association thanked Brent Cotten, who is completing his board tenure.
2027 leadership team
The NCSA’s 2027 executive leadership team includes:
- Chairman Byard Ebling of Shankman & Associates;
- President Audra Vogler, Hoffmann Vogler;
- VP Brandon Sagotz, Ferrara Candy Company;
- Ex-officio Chairman Shelly Clarey, Adams & Brooks;
- Director at Large Joe Melville, Melville Candy Co.;
- Secretary Fran Ansell, Ferrara Candy Co.;
- Treasurer Mike Sitarz, Elmer Chocolate; and
- Executive Director Teresa Tarantino, ProPress.
Ansell succeeds Mary Beth Lane in the secretary role. “We are also deeply grateful to Mary Beth for the time, care and commitment she has given the NCSA over the years,” Tarantino said.
Stu Selarnick of Frankford Candy Co. returns as chairman of the Manufacturer Advisory Council, joined by John Brooks Jr., Adams & Brooks; Mitchell Goetze, Goetze’s Candy Co.; Michael Rosenberg, PIM Brands; and David Shaffer, Just Born.
Formed in 1899, Cleveland, Ohio-based NCSA administers the Candy Hall of Fame, which recognizes lifetime confectionery career achievements, and the Kettle Awards, established in 1946.
Related: NCSA Recognizes Candy Execs At Sweets & Snacks Expo