MANHATTAN — AIB International recently announced the appointment of three individuals to key leadership roles within the organization.
Philip (Phil) Kastle has joined AIB as senior director of customer service and business processes. Mr. Kastle is a 16-year veteran of American Express. As a member of the International Membership Travel Services executive leadership team, he oversaw an organization of more than 1,500 employees in 25 countries, generating $1 billion in revenues for American Express.
He has a bachelor’s degree in industrial design from Kansas State University and a master’s degree in business administration from Arizona State University.
William (Bill) Gambel has been named vice-president of client development and target marketing, effective April 1. He most recently was vice-president at Caravan Ingredients, where he was employed for 25 years in the baking and ingredient industry. His international business experience includes work in Central and South America, China, and Europe. He has implemented key account management programs and a CRM program, as well as pricing strategies to enhance margins in a highly commoditized industry.
He has a degree in business management from Ottawa University, and is an AIB International Baking Science and Technology graduate.
“We are excited to have Bill Gambel and Philip Kastle join AIB,” said Andre Biane, president and chief executive officer of AIB International. “The global experience and business expertise that they bring to AIB will truly help us fulfill our long range initiatives. Their leadership qualities will strengthen the fabric of the AIB executive team and guide the teams they lead.”
Last week, Mr. Biane removed the interim tag from Brian Strouts, making Mr. Strouts the permanent vice-president of baking and food technology. Mr. Strouts is a 23-year AIB veteran who has served in a number of leadership roles in the organization, including overseeing biscuit products, experimental baking, and research and technical services. He has provided consulting services, delivered technical lectures to industry, and authored and co-authored numerous technical publications.
He is a graduate of Kansas State University with a degree in bakery science and is also an AIB Certified Baker. His appointment is effective immediately.
“Strouts’ leadership over the past several months has proven that he is the right person to lead the baking and food technical service organization,” Mr. Biane said. “These new appointments will be key in moving AIB forward while retaining our position as a leader in the global food services industry.”
