ChocXO and Chewters Chocolates have strengthened its leadership team with the appointment of Kristen Mandel as vice president of marketing, effective at this year's Sweets & Snacks Expo.

In this role, Mandel will be responsible for marketing strategy, brand campaign development, and leading future innovation for ChocXO.

"I'm thrilled to step into this new role at ChocXO to drive the brand's growth, and couldn't be more excited to start at the height of confectionery — at the Sweets & Snacks Expo," Mandel said. 

Mandel joins the ChocXO executive team with more than 17 years of experience in marketing in consumer packaged goods. Prior to joining ChocXO, Mandel held marketing leadership positions at Ferrero North America, Ferrara Candy Company, and Nestle USA, leading marketing on such brands as Butterfinger, Crunch and Baby Ruth, among others.

"We are excited to expand our executive team to meet the brand's growth goals," said Peter Higgins, president at ChocXO and Chewters Chocolates. "Known for leading and inspiring teams, Kristen comes into this new leadership role positioned to do great things and to help us achieve exceptional results. Her strengths in marketing strategy, new product innovation, brand communications, building customer relationships, and passion for chocolate make her an excellent addition to the team."