WMC is pleased to welcome Liman Liu to the newly created position of Assistant Operations Manager. Liman will have broad responsibilities that include analytical testing and becoming proficient in milling, baking and Crop Quality project management, in preparation for assuming the Operations Manager position when Bon Lee retires in mid-2023.

Liman has extensive commercial baking and product development experience, having spent the last eight years at Dave’s Killer Bread (now part of Flowers Foods.) In her most recent role as R&D Manager, she led DKB innovation, ingredient formulation, and product and process development across five locations. She managed the development and launch of several new product lines including bagels, rolls and English muffins. She also led the creation of an in-house sensory panel to improve product consistency.

Prior to DKB, Liman worked for BAKERpedia as a food scientist, researching new technologies and writing informational articles. She has also published refereed journal articles focused on the relationship of grain quality to end-product quality. Her product development experience brings value to all WMC activities, including technical training and product quality analysis. Liman earned her Master’s degree in Food Science from Kansas State University. She also completed the AIB baking science program. Liman speaks fluent Mandarin.

Also of note, the WMC Selection Committee continues its work to find the new Executive Director. Interviews are being conducted and committee discussions are ongoing. As most of you know, the current director, Janice Cooper, announced last fall her intention to return to California and restart her consulting practice. She is helping with the selection process and will stay long enough to ensure a smooth transition.

Brent Haugen, who joined WMC as the Office Manager three years ago is being given the new title of Office Administrator. Brent’s responsibilities have expanded over the past years and this new title better describes the scope and importance of his role. Congratulations Brent and thank you for all that you do.