Sylvia Buxton, the CEO of Erlanger-based Perfetti Van Melle USA, was named as the National Confectioners Association’s Advocate of the Year for 2026.
The annual award recognizes an industry leader for engagement in public policy discussions affecting the confectionery sector. Buxton was recognized for her involvement in advocacy efforts at the federal and state levels.
Buxton leads Perfetti Van Melle’s Americas business unit, overseeing more than 2,400 employees across the United States, Canada, Mexico and Latin America.
“I’m honored to be recognized as NCA’s Advocate of the Year,” Buxton said in a news release. “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 energizing to use my experience to further these efforts with lawmakers at the federal, state, and local levels.”
Buxton serves on NCA’s Board of Trustees and Strategic Advisory Committee. She has previously received NCA’s Woman of Influence award, been inducted into the Candy Hall of Fame and named a finalist for the Kettle Award.