BURLINGTON, MASS. — Karin Rotem-Wildeman, PhD, has been named chief research and development officer at Keurig Dr Pepper, effective Jan. 9, 2023. She will succeed David Thomas, who is retiring after 16 years with the company.

In her new role, Dr. Rotem-Wildeman will be responsible for leading product development, packaging innovation, flavor technology and associated R&D capabilities.

Dr. Rotem-Wildeman has 25 years of leadership experience driving product innovation and commercialization for leading global food and beverage companies, most recently as chief scientific officer at the Livekindly Collective, a plant-based startup with a portfolio of established brands as well as innovative new products. Prior to that role, she was global head of R&D at Godiva Chocolatier. Before joining Godiva, she had spent 18 years with PepsiCo, Inc. in global R&D leadership roles across beverages and food. She began her career in research engineering in the foodservice division of Nestle.

“Karin is an accomplished R&D leader and CPG executive with a proven track record in concept-to-shelf innovation across multiple product categories,” said Bob Gamgort, chairman and chief executive officer of Keurig Dr Pepper. “I look forward to working with her as we continue to deliver against our vision to meet every beverage need.”

Dr. Rotem-Wildeman received a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from Lehigh University and a doctorate in chemical engineering from the University of Massachusetts Amherst. She currently serves on the department advisory boards of both academic institutions.