Emma Vakatini, MBA
Emma Vakatini, MBA, is the Director of Commercial Operations at Sensient Agricultural Ingredients LLC, where she leads product management, marketing, and sales initiatives for a global food manufacturing company. With a strong foundation in chemistry and business analytics, Emma has successfully bridged technical and commercial teams, optimizing product portfolios to drive growth and profitability. Her strategic leadership and crisis management skills have earned her recognition across the organization, reflecting her ability to navigate complex challenges while keeping customer and team priorities at the forefront.
Emma began her career in the sciences as a chemist and quickly progressed through quality control and operations management roles, demonstrating a talent for translating technical expertise into commercial success. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry and an MBA in Business Analytics from California State University, Stanislaus, and is an active member of the American Chemical Society and the Tri-Alpha Honor Society. Her work also includes contributions to the broader industry, serving on the CA League of Food Producers Food Safety Apprenticeship Committee, where she supports initiatives in food safety and professional development.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Emma is a dedicated mentor and advocate, particularly for women navigating career and personal challenges. As a single mother, she draws on her own experiences to encourage others, while maintaining strong faith-based values and community involvement. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her children, baking, traveling, entertaining, wine tasting, and exploring her interests in interior design and puzzles. Emma is committed to expanding her leadership influence in the organic and agricultural food sectors, while continuing to make a positive impact on those around her.
• California State University, Stanislaus - MBA
• Tri-Alpha Honor Society Member
• American Chemical Society Accreditation and Member
• CA League of Food Producers Food Safety Apprenticeship Committee
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to resilience, adaptability, and self-belief. I have learned to push forward despite personal hardships, draw lessons from past experiences, and refuse to let setbacks define my future. As a single mother, I have embraced leadership with determination, confidence, and a clear sense of purpose.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to believe in yourself and never let others diminish your confidence. Owning your voice and expertise is essential, especially in technical or male-dominated fields. Be confident, speak up, and embrace your unique background and experiences—they are your strengths. Use them to drive your growth and open doors, rather than letting them hold you back.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field right now is navigating global market volatility, driven by factors such as geopolitical conflicts and tariffs. At the same time, the greatest opportunities come from innovation. People’s love for food opens endless possibilities for reinvention, particularly in the organic and sustainable food space, where creativity and forward-thinking can make a real impact.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that are most important to me in both my work and personal life are integrity, perseverance, growth, and compassion. I believe in lifting others up—especially women facing challenges—and leading with a balance of strength and empathy.
Locations
Sensient Technologies Corporation
Turlock, CA 95382