Sylvia Buxton named as NCA’s 2026 Advocate of the Year
Sylvia Buxton has gained further industry honours by the NCA, being named as its advocate of the year. Pic: NCA
Sylvia Buxton, president and CEO of Perfetti Van Melle Americas, has been named as the National Confectioners Association’s Advocate of the Year, for her services to the industry, reports Neill Barston.
As Confectionery Production has previously covered, the experienced sector leader has previously gained other key honours from the key trade body, including gaining the Woman of Influence award in 2024, as well as also gaining entry into the NCSA’s Candy Hall of Fame. Catch our Sweets & Snacks Expo review from 2025, featuring a key interview with Sylvia Buxton among other core industry businesses, below.
Regarding her latest achievement, the NCA noted that it had been bestowed for her outstanding leadership and dedication to elevating the industry’s voice in policy discussions at every level of government.
She has previously spoken at the State of the Industry Conference on mentoring women in business, and has continued to be regarded as a key figure in the region’s confectionery market development over the past two decades.
John Downs, president & CEO of the National Confectioners Association, welcomed the latest honours for the Perfetti Van Melle leader.
He said: “Sylvia’s commitment to advocacy shows the strength of our industry when we work alongside policymakers to make a difference.
“Her strategic perspectives, willingness to engage directly with policymakers, and leadership in navigating complex legislative and regulatory issues has made a tremendous impact. We’re proud to recognise her with this well-deserved honour.”
As the NCA added, Sylvia has been a powerful advocate for policies that support the confectionery industry’s longevity. Her hands-on outreach and engagement with issues ranging from tariffs to food ingredient legislation has strengthened NCA’s ability to represent its members in Washington, D.C., in Kentucky, and beyond.
Commenting on her award, Sylvia said.“I’m honoured to be recognised as NCA’s Advocate of the Year,” “NCA’s key mission is advocating for the long-term health of the confectionery industry, and with so many policy issues on the table, it is critical this year more than ever for each member company to provide their support. It’s been energising to use my experience to further these efforts with lawmakers at the federal, state, and local levels.”
