NatureSweet Tomatoes has hired consumer research and development and product strategy executive Martin C. Ruebelt, Ph.D., to its newly created position of chief scientific officer.
The new role “demonstrates NatureSweet’s commitment to step up both investments and partnerships in leading science fields,” the San Antonio, Texas-based greenhouse grower said.
“Dramatically increasing the focus on science, at a time where innovation is speeding up in areas well beyond what has been our historical strength, is not only about a commitment to continue leading in flavor, but also about leading the industry on how to get the superior flavor in a way that furthers our [environmental, social and governance] platform,” NatureSweet President and CEO Rodolfo Spielmann said in a release.
In the new role, Ruebelt will act as an advisor to both the CEO and the head of research and development/quality, as well as lead the development of the innovation center NatureSweet has committed to create in the U.S.
“Martin brings not only an incredible depth of technical experience to his role, but also a vision on how science can serve the consumer and leadership abilities seldom seen in the industry,” said Spielmann. “He is extremely well-suited to help guide NatureSweet through all the technological innovation available to us, focusing on proactively connecting with academia, seed breeders, startups and ag-tech companies as a way to bridge NatureSweet’s purpose of transforming the lives of agricultural workers with transformative innovation.”
With more than 20 years of ag industry experience and a doctorate in food and biochemistry from the Technical University of Munich, Ruebelt brings extensive experience to his new role, including work with Sensei Ag, where he was the senior vice president, as well as consumer traits and product strategy lead.
He also worked for Bayer Crop Science as head of global consumer research and development for vegetables and as a Bayer science fellow, where he led a team that provided product and consumer insights, sensory and phenotyping support to improve fruit and vegetable quality.
Previously, Ruebelt had an 18-year career at Monsanto, spanning multiple roles.
“I can’t imagine a more exciting time to join NatureSweet,” Ruebelt said. “I believe the potential for growth is tremendous, given the smart and passionate people at NatureSweet, who are committed to make a difference in the world, along with the [company’s] strong product portfolio and openness for innovation. I am confident that we can develop and execute plans to innovate as the No. 1 greenhouse vegetable solution to retailers for many years.”
