Lloyd Schantz is a dynamic and accomplished executive with an outstanding track record in revitalizing, restructuring, and maximizing growth and ROI for food ingredient companies operating in complex and competitive international markets. As a strategic, hands-on leader, Schantz excels at driving rapid performance improvements, propelling revenue growth, and positioning organizations for competitive advantage. With extensive international experience, a wide network of industry contacts, and a natural talent for identifying profitable business opportunities, he has successfully led both global operations and business development efforts across diverse sectors, including Functional Food Ingredients, Nutraceuticals, and Flavors.
Schantz’s career progression reflects his exceptional leadership abilities and his deep expertise in Sales, Marketing, and Business Development. As Senior Vice President, Board Member, and Executive Vice President at John I. Haas, Inc. and BetaTec Hop Products (2005 to 2015), he played a pivotal role in revitalizing global operations that were suffering from stagnant sales, negative profit margins, and insufficient marketing programs. By developing long-term strategic business and operations plans, Schantz was able to increase sales from $19.1 million in 2005 to $84 million by 2014. His leadership also extended to employee empowerment, where he implemented participative management programs that enhanced individual accountability and fostered a sense of urgency, driving growth and transformation within the company.
Earlier in his career, Schantz was instrumental in reversing the sales decline at Quadra Chemicals (2004), where he led a 250% sales increase by shifting the company’s focus to Functional Food Ingredients. His efforts included pioneering a comprehensive marketing strategy that improved sales and product offerings while also driving cost savings. His success continued at DSM Food Specialties, where he served as Vice President of Sales & Marketing for the Americas (2000 to 2004). There, he achieved a remarkable 29% growth in customer accounts, a 45% increase in sales, and expanded market share by 12% despite challenging industry conditions. Schantz’s ability to improve bottom-line performance was also evident through cost reductions and increased profits, solidifying his reputation as a transformative leader.
In addition to his work at large organizations, Schantz has a proven entrepreneurial track record. He purchased an under-preforming company in 2016, Express Employment Professionals, and developed a client base of more than 1,200. With the modest investment of $175,000, he returned 11 times the initial monies in the 8 years of ownership. Schantz also founded Sunrise Citrus Products of California (1992 to 1997), where he grew annual sales to $695,000 and achieved a 92.6% ROI. His entrepreneurial ventures also included founding New World Botanicals & Flavor Company (1992 to 1993), where he quickly expanded sales and successfully negotiated the company’s sale to Fontarome SA.
Schantz’s leadership extends beyond business development and sales. He successfully managed global teams, oversaw R&D/QA/Technical Services and Operations, and developed strategic partnerships. His expertise in Government Relations, Intellectual Property Management, and Lobbying further positioned him as an influential figure within the Food Ingredients and Nutraceutical industries. His commitment to innovation is evident through his development of multiple patents in areas such as Licorice Extract Processing, Biopesticides, and Animal Nutrition Supplements.
An MBA graduate from Golden Gate University and a Summa Cum Laude graduate in Microbiology (Biochemistry minor) from Fresno State University, Schantz is a lifelong learner and a previous member of the Institute of Food Technologists, Research Chefs Association, American Herbal Products Association, Renewable Fuel Association, Growth Energy, American Honey Producers Association, and American Beekeeping Federation. His career is marked by his ability to recruit and retain top talent, his focus on achieving sustainable growth, and his reputation as a change agent capable of leading organizations to new heights.
Lloyd Schantz is a proven leader and visionary who continues to shape the future of the Functional Food Ingredient, Nutraceutical, and Flavors industries. Through his extensive experience and dedication to excellence, he has demonstrated a unique ability to lead companies through periods of transformation, enabling them to thrive in evolving, global markets.
- Character: Proven leader with a track record of empowering teams, fostering accountability, and driving sustainable performance improvements.
- Knowledge: Extensive expertise in Functional Food Ingredients, Nutraceuticals, and Flavors, supported by international experience and a wide network of industry contacts.
- Strategic: Skilled in developing long-term business and operational plans that lead to consistent revenue growth, market share expansion, and competitive positioning.
- Communication: Strong communicator who has successfully implemented marketing programs, managed corporate lobbying interests, and built solid relationships with key stakeholders.