The Human Ingredient in the Food Industry

Masha Vis-Mertens, currently CHRO at Corbion, is a "Career Chameleon" with over 20 years of leadership at Cargill and Barry Callebaut. Her expertise spans the high-pressure world of Global Sales to the complexities of Supply Chain and HR across the EMEA region. With an academic background in International Supply Chain Management and European Studies, she bridges technical strategy with human-centric leadership. Beyond the office, Masha is a chocolate enthusiast who finds balance through manual activities and gardening at her home in France.

In this episode of the podcast, Marco Tschan sits down with Masha Vis-Mertens for an insightful exploration of leadership and career evolution within the global food industry. Drawing from her extensive experience across diverse corporate landscapes, Masha reflects on the "Career Chameleon" mindset, the ability to adapt across functions, from the high-stakes pressure of sales to the strategic complexities of human resources. The conversation highlights how cultural nuances and company size fundamentally shape corporate identity, offering a rare look at the differences between managing public quarterly demands and private sector growth.

The dialogue shifts toward the future of work, specifically addressing the dual impact of AI and automation on both the office and the factory floor. Masha provides a nuanced perspective on how technology is blurring traditional professional lines while simultaneously increasing the value of genuine human interaction. She emphasizes that while digital tools can optimize processes, the core of successful customer relationships and organizational health remains rooted in authentic, unpolished communication and curiosity.

Furthermore, the episode tackles the evolving expectations of the modern workforce. Masha discusses the challenge of managing a new generation of talent that seeks rapid progression and purpose, sharing valuable strategies for balancing technical expertise with leadership development. By focusing on the intersection of people, processes, and international perspectives, this conversation provides a roadmap for professionals looking to navigate the complexities of a tech-driven, globalized market while remaining grounded in human-centric leadership.