Joyce Steet

Class of 2024

For the past 28 years, Joyce Steet has taken a passion for confectionery and a love of science and developed some of the industry’s most iconic brands.

Born on September 12, 1970, in Atlantic City, Joyce’s upbringing was enriched by the profound influence of her parents, both of whom were teachers and avid sailors.

From a young age, she and her brother were immersed in a world of academic encouragement and nautical adventures, sailing up and down the East Coast. These experiences instilled in her a love for learning and adventure.

Joyce graduated from high school in 1988 with a dream of becoming a veterinarian. However, her career aspirations shifted and she pursued undergraduate studies at Cook College in New Brunswick, NJ, earning a bachelor’s degree in food science in 1992. She continued her education at Rutgers University, obtaining a master’s degree in food science with a focus on Food Engineering.

In 1996, Joyce began her professional journey at Mars Wrigley as a product development scientist on the Starburst brand. After working on major projects including Starburst Tropical Jellybeans and the first prototype for Sour Skittles, she moved into managing product development for the seasonal business, learning about chocolate and collaborating with co-manufacturing partners.

Through the years, Joyce continued to gain responsibility, including working on an incubator team instrumental in creating the Dove Chocolate at Home program, which she notes as a highlight of her career.

By 2017, Joyce had been named USA Director of Product Development for chocolate, and in 2020, her role expanded to include the gum, mints, and fruity portfolios.

In 2023, Joyce became the senior director for these sectors and was presented with the Mars R&D Lifetime Contribution award, recognizing the impact she has had on the company and its brands.

Joyce also led the team tasked with developing Crispy M&M’s in just 100 days. The product went on to earn a 2016 Product of the Year award.

Throughout her career, Joyce has participated on industry panels and presentations, including the Dove Chocolate Discoveries Presidents Leadership Conference and the IFT Product Development Competition.

She is known for her optimistic, kind, and approachable nature, qualities that have contributed to her success as a manager. People close to her say Joyce has consistently gone above and beyond in her work, fostering a collaborative and supportive environment for her team.

In addition to her professional achievements, Joyce has made significant contributions to the industry through mentorship and participation on various industry panels. Her philosophy of life emphasizes gratitude, and finding the good in every situation.

Getting To Know Joyce

People would be surprised to learn . . . I owned a deli & café from 2000-2003 and making egg sandwiches is not nearly as fun as developing confectionery products!

What do you do for fun? I love spending time in South Jersey on my house boat and taking rides on the wave runner.