Passionate about creating value & building partnerships.

Born and raised in So-Cal, I grew up minutes away from the ocean in Huntington Beach. After graduating from Cal State University Fullerton, embarked on a cross-country journey, landing in the Carolinas. Here I was able to put previous restaurant & grocery experience to use in a new role. I spent several years with Carolina Ingredients in Sales & CS before moving to a few other positions across the US. After being away for a few years and almost 10 years total in custom ingredient manufacturing, I’m happy to be back with a team who’s dedicated to creating value every day. One of our core cultures is that “we’re only as good as the value that each of us creates every day”. Though collectively, we are the perfect flavor solutions partner, as we strive every day to “make the world taste better”. I look forward to growing new & existing partnerships, while working to create value & offer solutions throughout.

Core Culture

It’s hard to pick one core culture, as each of the 7 are the foundation to our success. Though, my favorite is probably “Innovative Solutions to Solving Problems”. As we’re different than most, with looking to create value & offer innovative solutions at the core of what we do. We ultimately exist through our customers’ brands and take pride knowing that we play an integral role in developing one-of-a-kind flavors that enhance their products. “NO” is not really in our language. Rather we look to tell you what we “CAN” do, knowing that we’re unique in how nimble we are. Additionally, as a custom blender, we’re constantly evolving & offering new products. So, even if something isn’t in our wheelhouse today, it’s not to say we won’t strive to make it happen if the opportunity is right to create value in our partnerships.

Personal

My wife and son are my everything. I was also lucky enough to grow up with a large diverse family, enjoying “fusion cuisine” throughout my life. Call it a “melting pot”, as my heritage ranges from the Philippines, Mexico, Japan, Russia, Israel, and Ireland. I learned the joys of mixing & trying new flavors young. Away from work and time with the family, I love all things sports- specifically football and golf, though will never turn down the opportunity to attend a live sporting event. Love trying new food & drinks, traveling, weightlifting, seeing live music, and relaxing by a body of water with friends and family!

Favorite Seasoning Blend

The best thing about Carolina Ingredients is that our culinary-inspired R&D group continually introduces new innovative flavors. My favorite seasoning seemingly changes every week. Right now, “swicy” is the rage, with complex sweet plus heat mixings perfect for any base ranging from snacks, meat, sauces, etc. Though, can’t ever go wrong with the Carolina Classic Seasoning either which encompasses savory amped up umami flavors for beef, poultry, or pork too!