Sylvia Buxton of Perfetti van Melle named among nine Candy Hall of Fame winners
Sylvia Buxton is among Candy Hall of Fame Winners. Pic: Perfetti van Melle
Sylvia Buxton, the North American president of Perfetti van Melle’s global business has been celebrating after having been named among nine new members inducted to the Candy Hall of Fame, writes Neill Barston.
The accolades from the NCSA were bestowed at a black-tie banquet at the Hilton Bonnet Creek in Orlando, Florida, US, last weekend, marking the winners collective contributions to the wider confectionery sector, with the event in its 53rd edition.
During its history, the honours have recognised lifetime career achievements, with past members coming from all disciplines within the industry, with each of those claiming an award have at least 20 years of service within the confectionery market.
For her part, Sylvia Buxton has overseen notable growth within her region’s of the internationally-focused company, as well as having been celebrated for championing women in business, and she recently gained the Woman of Influence award (watch her discussing the accolade during our exclusive review below).
Speaking on Linkedin about her award, Sylvia said: “What an incredible honour to join the Candy Hall of Fame. I am humbled and grateful to be recognised. Congratulations to my fellow inductees and all the other Hall of Famers that have been recognised before us.
“What an amazing industry we have! When I started out in my career, I never imagined that I would spend over 30 years working in the wonderful world of confectionery. Who wouldn’t love to bring smiles to the faces of millions of consumers every day?! Even more importantly, our industry has a great culture made up of fantastic people who care deeply about our category and each other. You are all more than just colleagues … you are truly one big candy family!.”
The other winners included Edward Dee, Smarties Candy Co. (posthumous); Georgia Gallicchio, Thayer Distribution; Patrick Hagerty, Performance Food Group; Amos Ma, Amos Sweets & Food Co., Ltd.; Matthew Pye, PIM Brands, Inc.; Jeffery Rome, Rome Consulting; Marlene Stauffer, Blommer Chocolate Co.; and Joyce Steet, Mars Wrigley.
“The NCSA is proud to partner with candy professionals throughout their career,” said Shelly Clarey, President & CEO of NCSA and a member of the Candy Hall of Fame Class of 2016. “From mentoring through every stage of their career, celebrating milestones to induction into the Candy Hall of Fame. We are dedicated to nurturing talent and fostering a vibrant community that honors the passion of the industry.”
Highlighting the significance and prestige of the event, nearly 350 representatives from the confectionery industry and more than 45 Candy Hall of Fame members were on hand to witness the induction ceremony and welcome the Class of 2024 into their ranks.
“This year’s Candy Hall of Fame celebration epitomised the best of the confectionery industry,” said Teresa Tarantino, Executive Director of NCSA. “The event celebrated creativity, passion and the legacy these individuals have contributed to our industry. Their work inspires us all to continue giving back in meaningful ways that help build and strengthen the worldwide confectionery industry.”
