Applied DNA Sciences Inc., the leader in large-scale PCR-based DNA manufacturing, has appointed Mr. Wayne Buchen as Vice President – Strategic Sales, to lead the company’s global textile Strategic Sales efforts. With over 20 years of sales, sourcing and operations experience with established international brands, Mr. Buchen will drive the development and execution of sales strategies to expand Applied DNA’s presence across global textile markets.
Mr. Buchen most recently served as Senior Vice President of Global Sourcing and Operations for Lacoste in Hong Kong and Senior Vice President of Global Sourcing in New York. He previously held leadership positions at Under Armor, Li & Fung, VF Corporation, Nautica and Liz Claiborne.
“Wayne’s deep experience with the needs of today’s brands makes him a great and timely fit for Applied DNA as we move to expand our penetration of the global textile market,” said Dr. James A. Hayward, President and CEO of Applied DNA. “His many years of supply chain operations and sourcing for leading apparel brands give him a unique perspective on how to position our CertainT platform for maximum effect for adoption by brands and textile manufacturers worldwide, as business imperatives centered on sustainability and the circular economy continues to be embraced by textile ecosystem participants.”
Mr. Buchen, together with MeiLin Wan, Vice President of Textile Sales, will lead the company’s sales efforts in its textile vertical. Mr. Buchen will be responsible for the strategic sales direction, focusing on business development, key accounts, integrated value chain propositions and new customer relationships and partner development. He will also design and implement go-to-market strategies for new applications of Applied DNA’s CertainT platform in textiles.
Mr. Steve Birkhold, CEO of UL Brands and a veteran of brand creation, said: “Wayne has consistently worked on innovative solutions to problem solve many issues throughout his career. This initiative has the opportunity to transform the fashion/textile industry. Wayne’s partnership will add tremendous value to the company.”
“Applied DNA is at a pivotal point where potential partners recognize that our molecular business solutions are critical components of the value chain. The applications for our advanced technology are diverse, and I am energized to have Wayne enhancing and expanding our partnerships across the textiles industry,” said Ms. Wan.