Caravan Ingredients appointed Andy Linajs as business development manager, food and beverage, responsible for capturing the voice of the consumer to help develop appealing products and programs specifically within food and beverage applications. Additionally, he will work to gather intelligence and track customer trends in support of Caravan Ingredients’ innovation process to ensure on-trend technology is available to meet customer demands.

Linajs has an extensive background in food ingredients, holding related positions in sales, R&D, marketing, business development and finance. His previous positions include vice president of sales and marketing for Gusmer Enterprises, Inc.; chief operating officer for Colorado Sweet Gold Opportunities, Inc.; and general manager for Corn Products International.

“Andy’s extensive experience in food ingredients will greatly enhance the ability of the Consumer Insights program at Caravan Ingredients’ ability to provide innovative value added solutions to our customers,” says Jim Wells, director of commercial insights for the Lenexa, Kan.-based ingredients supplier.