PepsiCo has appointed Kathy Usic as Research & Development Life Sciences Associate Manager across Australia and New Zealand, commencing last week, based in Sydney.
Her appointment follows the launch of PepsiCo’s healthy snack ambition which will see 30 per cent of the PepsiCo snack range achieve a Health Star Rating of 3.5 or above by 2030.
Usic has more than 35 years of experience in the FMCG and health sectors, alongside extensive work for not-for-profit organisations including Diabetes Australia and the Healthy Kids Association. She will play a key role in advising the business on how it can continue to bring healthier options to market and reformulate its market-leading brands such as Doritos, Red Rock Deli, and Smith’s.
PepsiCo ANZ, CEO Kyle Faulconer, said Usic is a deeply accomplished health and nutrition professional and business leader who demonstrates a genuine passion for helping people make better choices.
“Her values as a professional are truly aligned to our commitment to PepsiCo Positive – putting sustainability at the centre of how we source ingredients, make, and sell products and inspire consumers to make better choices for themselves and the planet.
“Her strategic experience leading large change management programs focused on improving health, wellness and nutrition within large scale organisations makes Kathy the perfect fit as we further our commitment to providing more choice to consumers. We are excited to welcome Kathy to the PepsiCo team.”
Prior to joining PepsiCo, Usic held the roles of CEO and Head of Program Development within the Glycemic Index Foundation (GIF), responsible for managing core internal operations, developing relationships with key partners, and growing awareness for GIF’s activities.
Usic’s previous experience includes leading nutritional roles at George Weston Foods, Campbell Arnott’s and Goodman Fielder, alongside work for the NSW School Canteen Association.
She said that she is proud to join the PepsiCo team at such a pivotal moment in the company’s ongoing portfolio transformation journey.
“I look forward to working with the PepsiCo team as we continue to provide Aussie consumers with more positive choices.”
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