Mars Snacking North America President Anton Vincent wins 2026 Kettle Award for confectionery excellence
Anton Vincent, president of Mars Snacking, North America and Global Ice Cream, has been named the 2026 recipient of the Kettle Award, one of the confectionery industry’s highest honors.
The Kettle Award recognizes outstanding contributions to the confectionery industry, including leadership in education and personnel training, environmental sustainability, energy efficiency and product innovation. Established 80 years ago, the award honors individuals who have made a lasting impact on the industry.
“I am incredibly honored to receive this year’s Kettle Award and join the ranks of other distinguished confectionery powerhouses,” said Vincent. “This award is a recognition of the tireless efforts of our Associates who have helped position our iconic snacking portfolio for continued growth. It is a core belief at Mars that the world we want tomorrow starts with how we do business today, and I am energized to see what’s ahead.”
Vincent has served as president of Mars Snacking, North America, for nearly seven years, during which time he has led significant business growth, repositioned the company’s largest consumer portfolio and supported the development of thousands of associates across Mars’ regional and global teams. He also leads cross-company reputation-building efforts for Mars in the United States.
“The Kettle Award was created 80 years ago to honor leaders who don’t just drive growth but also shape the future of our industry — and that is precisely what Anton has done,” said Teresa Tarantino, executive director of the NCSA. “His forward-thinking leadership has delivered impressive results for some of the most beloved confectionery brands while consistently prioritizing people and progress. We are proud to celebrate his impact this year.”
During Vincent’s tenure, Mars has advanced several major initiatives, including a $2 billion investment in U.S. manufacturing. He also serves as a mentor for Unreasonable Food™, advising food startups focused on scaling sustainable innovations.
Beyond his work at Mars, Vincent has been recognized as one of Savoy Magazine’s Most Influential Black Executives in Corporate America and received the 2023 National Confectioners Association Distinguished Service Award. He is a founding member of the Black Executive CMO Alliance, a distinguished alumnus of Sam Houston State University and Indiana University, and a member of the NCA Board of Trustees.
The Kettle Award will be formally presented at the 80th annual Kettle Awards ceremony on May 19, 2026, at the Las Vegas Convention Center.
More information about the Kettle Awards and Vincent’s commendation is available through the National Confectionery Sales Association.
