Stephanie Lopez and Maureen Olewnik have been promoted to new positions at AIB.

Ms. Lopez was named vice-president of food safety education. The position was previously held by retired vice-president Bill Pursley. Dr. Olewnik was named senior vice-president of audit and technical services.


“Stephanie comes to this new role with a strong and balanced understanding of regulatory and technical issues, and is a proven field auditor and food safety training presenter,” said Jim Munyon, president and chief executive officer. “As an AIB staff member, she has a solid understanding of our mission and goals and she also brings industry insight from experience working with Mission Foods, Kerry Food & Beverage, and Elite Spice, Inc.”

Ms. Lopez will focus on exploring new and innovative ways to share information with the industry; the use of technology to enhance both distance and face-to-face education; providing timely information on F.S.M.A. updates; and on GFSI, GMPs, prerequisites, and food defense training.

She received a degree in cell and molecular biology from California State University, Northridge. She has extensive professional experience in food safety management, education, and training, and is a qualified auditor for HACCP, FSSC 22000, BRC, SQF, AQS Lead Auditor, and is a trainer for SFQ, BRC, and HACCP. In addition to holding numerous auditing certifications, she has authored multiple food safety publications. She initially came to AIB in 2000 as a food safety auditor and later became the HACCP coordinator.

“Following in the footsteps of food safety legend Bill Pursley is a great honor,” Ms. Lopez said. “Fortunately, AIB, with its wealth of knowledgeable and talented people, will provide me excellent support in my new role. With recent changes to regulations and technologies, this is an exciting time to be in the food industry, and I am looking forward to playing an integral role in food protection through AIB’s renowned educational offerings.”

Ms. Lopez reports to Dr. Olewnik. Dr. Olewnik most recently was vice-president of audit and technical services. She joined AIB in 1982 and has held several management positions, including cereal chemist, project leader, manager of the experimental bakery, and director of experimental bakery.