Scott Ravech was named CEO of Deerland Enzymes, Inc. in 2008. Prior to joining Deerland Enzymes, Ravech was the Radcure Americas Business Leader, at Cytec Surface Specialties. He began his career in 1985 as a sales development specialist in the plastics division of General Electric (GE). Over the course of 17 years with GE, he gained experience in a variety of leadership roles in the plastics, structured products, silicones and energy services organizations. In 1996, he was named regional sales manager of GE Silicones and in 1999, global field marketing manager of GE Energy Services. In 2002, Mr. Ravech moved to UCB as vice president, commercial operations, Americas. He earned his BS degree in biology from the University of Massachusetts and his EMBA from Case Western Reserve University in Ohio.
 
Health E-Insights: In what direction do you see the supplement industry moving? 
 
Mr. Ravech: I don’t believe the question should be singular. Rather, what directions do I see the supplement industry moving. Regulatory: At a minimum, companies must commit themselves to GMP compliance and registration. While there is certainly a cost, or perhaps it should be viewed as an investment, the preferred outlook is that it ensures a safer outcome for the consumers and a definite return on the investment. GMP registration (certification) will continue to be demanded by quality conscience companies—as it should be. Everyone must get on board if they want to remain an ongoing concern. Value propositions: Companies will continuously be challenged to determine how best to differentiate themselves from their competition, such as services, education, new product developments, as well as other areas. Consolidation: As companies seek new avenues for growth, I believe consolidation will continue on a large scale. DuPont’s acquisition of Danisco is an example, as well as on a small-to-medium scale as well. Global: China’s place in the supplement industry continues to evolve. Today, China is already the country of origin for many raw materials and enzymes will most likely be no exception in the future as their quality, consistency and capacity improves. As a consumer, China embraces American products and I believe a larger market will evolve.
 
Health E-Insights: Where will the most significant growth occur at Deerland in the next few years? 
 
Mr. Ravech: Continued advancements in creating multi-component (complimentary products to enzymes) enzyme-based blends to support our three strongest categories is where our growth will take place. Digestion, our largest category, and anti-inflammatory and cardio health, our fastest growing segments.
 
Mr. Ravech: What new competition do you think the industry may have five years from now? 
 
Mr. Ravech: Despite the fact that smaller companies typically manufacture enzyme supplements, integration into this space in both knowledge, safe handling and other associated infrastructure is more complex than most would imagine. As a result, I believe larger companies will satisfy any desire to have a presence in this market by strategic alliance, joint venture or full-on acquisition. If successful, I believe consolidation of smaller companies into larger organizations will frame the future of competition. The real question is whether companies will sell, considering the value added position they enjoy and limits on the knowledge base needed to be successful.
 
Health E-Insights: Do you think technology will change the supplement industry? 
 
Mr. Ravech: Technology in every industry is the lifeblood of continued success and the supplement industry is no exception. Each company must strive to determine what the definition of technological advancement is for their company, especially as it compliments their core competencies. For Deerland, it comes down to strategic alliances and customer and supplier driven collaborative product development. In doing so, we take the time to research the best raw material for the application, the latest delivery systems and the best customized approach to satisfy our key customer’s needs.
 
Health E-Insights: What excites you most about your company? 
 
Mr. Ravech: Our focus, commitment and investment in collaborative innovation with customers, our dedication to customization, which allows us to truly understand the environment our customers have to compete in what they need from us to be successful, and finally, the strong infrastructure and team we have assembled at Deerland. We are truly aligned around our six core values. Passion for our customers’ success and satisfaction. Quality is everyone’s responsibility. Achieving our committed goals is a given. Ethics and integrity—no shortcuts. Safety must be a critical priority. Fundamental to our culture and team work—we win or lose together.
 
Health E-Insights: Share one thing about yourself that most people don't know. 
 
Mr. Ravech: As a child growing up in Boston, my aunt, who was my godmother, and uncle, were very well networked politically and socially, which gave me the opportunity to meet several famous people. Senator Edward Brooke, the first African American Senator voted into that office since the 19th century and the first African American to win his seat by securing the popular vote. Camelia Sadat, daughter of slain Egyptian leader and Nobel Peace Prize recipient Anwar Sadat, one of the key champions of peace in the middle east and Bob Wolfe, the famed sports attorney and agent who represented star athletes like Carl Yastrzemski, Larry Bird and Joe Montana.
 
Health E-Insights: What makes you laugh?
 
Mr. Ravech: I love a good joke or a funny story, especially when reminiscing with old friends about some of the things we did when we were younger. So I won’t embarrass myself, I will refrain from sharing examples.
 
Health E-Insights: If someone wrote a biography about you, what do you think the title should be? 
 
Mr. Ravech: Never Satisfied, But Always Supportive and your Biggest Fan…A lesson in taking risk and not giving up!


For more information and interview consideration, contact Sheldon Baker at sbaker@bakerdillon.com or visit his website at www.bakerdillon.com. And check out his blog at www.NutraInk.com.