IFF Introduces Updates to Its Board of Directors
IFF, a global leader in the flavors and fragrances industry, has unveiled the next phase of its Board of Directors, signaling a strategic move aimed at fortifying the company’s long-term growth prospects and driving market share expansion. This leadership Introduces transition is designed to reinforce IFF’s vision and ensure the company remains on a path of profitable growth by leveraging a blend of experience, innovation, and financial acumen.
Reflecting on the transitions, the company expressed its deep gratitude toward Roger W. Ferguson Jr., Christina Gold, John Davidson, and Gary Hu for their invaluable contributions, which have helped strengthen IFF. Their leadership has played a pivotal role in navigating the company through a period of significant transformation.
New Board Leadership: Kevin O’Byrne to Become Board Chair
In a significant leadership update, Kevin O’Byrne, an experienced board member of IFF and the current Chair of Centrica plc, will assume the role of Board Chair at the 2025 Annual Shareholder Meeting. O’Byrne will succeed Roger W. Ferguson, Jr., who has chaired IFF’s Board since 2022. Ferguson, after an exceptional 14-year tenure, has notified IFF of his decision not to seek re-election at the 2025 meeting. His leadership has been instrumental in IFF’s successful transformation and strategic expansion.
Board Appointments: Strengthening the Team with New Talent
Effective January 1, 2025, IFF will welcome three new members to Introduces its Board of Directors: Cynthia Jamison, Dr. Mehmood Khan, and Vincent Intrieri. These appointments bring a wealth of expertise and diverse perspectives that will help steer IFF toward its ambitious goals. Notably, Intrieri’s appointment follows a request from Icahn Capital LP under a Cooperation Agreement, replacing Gary Hu, who will retire from the Board at the end of 2024.
Board Retirements: Acknowledging Distinguished Service
Christina Gold and John Davidson, both of whom have served IFF with distinction, have also announced their intentions to retire from the Board and will not seek re-election at the 2025 Annual Introduces Shareholder Meeting. Following these departures, IFF will have a total of ten Board members, underscoring the evolving and dynamic nature of the company’s leadership team.
Reflecting on his tenure, Roger W. Ferguson Jr. said, “It has been an incredible honor and privilege to serve on the IFF Board. The Introduces company is well-positioned for continued success with the right leadership in place, a team driven by innovation, and a world-class portfolio supported by cutting-edge R&D. I am proud of the progress we’ve made and excited for IFF’s future as it moves forward into the next chapter.”
Erik Fyrwald, CEO and Director of IFF, expressed similar Introduces sentiments, adding, “We are deeply grateful for Roger, Christina, John, and Gary’s invaluable contributions to IFF. As we move into the next phase of our journey, I look forward to collaborating with Kevin in his new role as Chair. I am also thrilled to welcome Cindie, Mehmood, and Vince to the Board. Their wealth of experience and expertise will be crucial in helping us unlock our full potential, serve our customers, and continue delivering innovative, sustainable solutions.”
About the New Board Members
Cynthia Jamison
Cynthia “Cindie” Jamison is a seasoned executive with over two decades of corporate boardroom and financial leadership experience. Currently, she chairs Introduces the boards of Darden Restaurants and Big Lots and previously chaired Tractor Supply Co. She has also held key roles as CFO of AquaSpy, Inc. and several other companies undergoing periods of growth or turnaround. Jamison is highly regarded as an expert in financial and economic matters and frequently contributes to industry discussions on CFOs and governance. She is a recognized NACD Board Leadership Fellow and a regular commentator in major publications like Forbes and The Wall Street Journal.
Dr. Mehmood Khan
Dr. Mehmood Khan is the CEO of Hevolution Foundation, a pioneering global non-profit organization focused on extending the healthy lifespan of people worldwide. With over $400 million in funding, Hevolution aims to accelerate drug development and expand access to innovative health solutions. Dr. Khan’s prior experience includes serving as PepsiCo’s Vice Chairman and Chief Scientific Officer, where he led global research and development efforts. He also held the role of President at Takeda Introduces Global Research & Development Center. His background in both science and business strategy will be invaluable in guiding IFF’s long-term growth and sustainability efforts.
Vincent Intrieri
Vincent Intrieri is the founder and CEO of VDA Capital Management LLC, a private investment fund. He previously worked at Carl Icahn-related entities, including Icahn Capital LP, Introduces where he held senior leadership roles. Intrieri’s extensive experience directorships with several prominent companies, such as Transocean Ltd., Hertz Global Holdings, and Sandridge Energy. His expertise in investment strategy and corporate governance will be an asset to IFF as it continues to pursue growth and shareholder value.
With these strategic changes to its Board, IFF is poised to continue its legacy of leadership in the flavors and fragrances industry, while pushing ahead with a clear vision for long-term profitability, sustainability, and innovation. The fresh perspectives and deep expertise of the newly appointed board members will provide the company with the guidance needed to navigate the evolving business landscape and meet the needs of future generations of consumers.
