Sam Stinson (Gaeke)

Experience

• 

  University of Cincinnati - College of Engineering and Applied Science

  Jan 2018 - Dec 2018

  Research Assistant

  - Synthesized liposomes and polymer sheets to produce biodegradable eye implants capable of controlled medication release.- Analyzed size, drug concentration, and stability data to make improvements to lab protocol.

• 

  Perfetti Van Melle

  Jan 2019 - now

  - Commissions and validates a rework system projected to provide $500K annual savings.- Led the commissioning and validation of a converted process line to increase production capacity by 3045 MT/year.- Industrialized and launched reformulation of Xtremes Belts, leading to projected cost savings of $230K annually.- Advocated for investment in a redesigned extruder die plate based on $20K/month cost avoidance from giveaway reduction. - Commissioned and validated the installation of a third extrusion line, increasing capacity by 6343 MT/year.- Delivered sales samples for the launch of a new seasonal item with $600K GSV.- Qualified 11 alternate raw material suppliers to eliminate all single sourced materials. - Coordinated qualification of alternate raw material suppliers for $900K annual cost savings.- Implemented SPC weight control charts on Airheads lines to reduce giveaway.- Created detailed process summaries of all extrusion lines to identify critical control points. - Assisted with new product development by conducting taste tests with R&D and Marketing, providing feedback and next steps to Group R&D, and preparing tasting kits for consumer feedback.- Developed and administered organoleptic tests as part of a sensory evaluation program, raising department compliance to 96%.

  • R&D Process Scientist II

    Sept 2024 - now

  • R&D Process Scientist

    Feb 2022 - Sept 2024

  • R&D Scientist

    Aug 2021 - Feb 2022

  • R&D Intern

    Jan 2019 - Aug 2021