HW Global are very proud to announce that as part of the continued global search partnership, Mars Incorporated has announced the hiring of Dr. Maria Velissariou as the new Global Corporate Research & Development (R&D) Vice President and Chief Science Officer.

Dr. Velissariou joined Mars on September 13 and will lead Mars’ enterprise-wide approach to Quality and Food Safety, Scientific & Regulatory Affairs and deliver Mars’ R&D strategy in partnership with its business segments.

Dr. Velissariou will report into Jean-Christophe Flatin, President of Innovation, Science, Technology & Mars Edge and will partner with the existing Mars Chief Science Officer and Vice President of Corporate R&D, David Crean, as a transition to his retirement in April 2021.

Dr. Velissariou said: “The process was very well managed and despite the COVID-19 challenges the execution was seamless and smooth. HW Global provided timely and well-thought out preparation and coordination, received and provided feedback respectfully and could be relied upon at all times.”

The HW team would like to wish Dr. Velissariou all the very best of luck in her new role, and for a long and rewarding future with Mars.