Meet Senior Marketing Manager Kristoff Bannies, Who is Passionate About Driving Inclusion

Kristoff Bannies, Senior Marketing Manager of Hot Sauce Brands for Branded Food Service, has been a champion of change throughout his career. 

Since joining McCormick in 2019, Kristoff has applied his experience and positive, can-do attitude to grow French’s Condiments. Some of his accomplishments include the delivery of French’s Creamy Mustard Spreads, which was the brand’s first technical innovation on mustard since 1904. He’s currently cooking up new ideas for Frank’s RedHot and Cholula that will enable food service operators to spice up their menus. 

“I’ve often told friends and colleagues that I feel as if I won a trifecta. I love my work, where I do the work, and the people I work with.” said Kristoff. “Since joining the organization, I’ve also been empowered to drive my own career and gain the learning experiences I’m looking for. That matters.” 

Kristoff is currently serving his second year as the co-chair of PRISM, McCormick’s Employee Ambassador Group (EAG) dedicated to advocating for the LGBTQ+ community and its allies. As a member of the community who lives his life unapologetically despite the challenges, he’s passionate about driving inclusion, understanding, and acceptance. “Prior to joining McCormick, I hadn’t seen an EAG dedicated to the LGBTQ+ community,” he said. “It’s important for employees who are members of the community to not only be seen, but also treated as equals and celebrated for who they are. Here at McCormick, I know I can bring my full authentic self and be appreciated for it.” 

In close collaboration with the Office of DE&I, PRISM has made strides in creating awareness, education, and policy for the organization. In April, McCormick entered a new partnership with Out & Equal, an LGBTQ+ workplace equality non-profit. To celebrate Pride Month in June, McCormick employees will have an opportunity to attend a webinar that outlines the fundamentals of LGBTQ+ workplace inclusion. PRISM members will also participate in the Baltimore Pride Parade and host a series of events in partnership with other EAGs. 

Kristoff’s efforts in this space extend beyond McCormick as he also serves on the board for the MD LGBT Chamber of Commerce. This non-profit unites LGBTQ+ professionals and businesses with government and community entities that champion inclusivity, fairness, and prosperity for all. When Kristoff was asked why he became involved in the Chamber, he said, “Knowing that members of the LGBTQ+ community have historically been curtailed from having access to the same resources as others, I’m determined to do my part to bridge the gap by helping business owners get the support they both desire and deserve.” Kristoff plays an integral part in the development and execution of the chamber’s strategy along with its fundraising efforts.

When he’s not working, Kristoff loves to spend time with his family and close friends. He also volunteers his time at his local food bank and engages with charities that focus on uplifting underserved and disenfranchised communities. For fun, he enjoys going to the movies, trying new restaurants, and singing at concerts. An avid traveler prior to the pandemic, Kristoff is excited for his escape to the Caribbean this summer. When he’s not on the go, Kristoff is likely at home relaxing with his cats, Tank and Zell, and watching one of the many streaming services.

Follow the Flavor Forward Blog and McCormick & Company on LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram for company news and updates.