Our People

Dr. Muhammed Majeed was born and raised in Kerala, India. He has over 45+ years of experience in the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, molecular biology, nutritional and cosmetic industries.

After graduating with a degree in Pharmacy from Kerala University, Majeed emigrated to the USA in 1975. He continued his graduate studies at Long Island University, New York (M.S.) and St. John’s University New York (Ph.D) specializing in Industrial Pharmacy.

Dr. Majeed then spent 15 years gaining research experience in progressively responsible positions with Pfizer Inc., Carter-Wallace and Paco Research.

Sabinsa Corporation, a research oriented nutraceutical ingredients company, was founded by Dr. Majeed in 1988. Although the transition from a researcher to ingredients manufacturer was a tremendous challenge, Dr. Majeed handled it successfully, pioneering numerous safe and beneficial products backed by science that have since become industry standards. At present, this New Jersey based firm employs over 60 people.

In 1991, Dr. Majeed set up a research group at Bangalore, India called Sami Labs Ltd to support and expand upon the work of Sabinsa in the US. The facility now has over 500 people working for the company. Sami Labs combines manufacturing and global marketing of nutraceuticals and fine chemicals with cutting edge research.

Sami’s research-based innovative products, born of Dr. Majeed’s vision, have received recognition from the Indian Government and the US Nutraceuticals industry, as well as patents all over the world. Sami received the National award for quality products from the President Of India in the area of Basic Drugs, with both quality and innovation being identified as key components that resulted in the award. In addition, Sami pioneered the research and marketing of a number of phytonutrients based on herbs traditionally used in Ayurveda, the traditional Indian medical system, discovering far more uses than were previously known. Sami Labs was also honored twice by the Spices Board of India, receiving one award for developing a market for Garcinia Cambogia and the other for export performance.

Among his many awards, Dr. Majeed received recognition from several Indian-American groups for his enterprising work and progress. He also received the 1996 Entrepreneur of the year award from the National Federation of Asian Americans.

In 1997, Sabinsa Corporation was ranked America’s 90th fastest growing company by INC. Magazine. Sabinsa also ranked 7th in New Jersey among the fastest growing Technology based companies (New Jersey Fast 50).

In early 1999, Sami Labs started a division called Sami Spices based at Cochin, India to promote procurement and marketing of spices.

Ms. Asha has been an integral part of the Sami-Sabinsa Group for over 30 years, contributing to its growth and success across various roles. In January 2025, she was appointed CEO Americas, reflecting her exceptional leadership and deep industry expertise. Previously, she served as CEO of Sabinsa Corporation, USA, starting in September 2018, after a distinguished tenure as Vice President of Business Development.

Asha joined the Sami-Sabinsa Group in 1994 as Manager of Purchasing & Special Projects at Sami Labs Ltd. in Bangalore, India, the parent company of Sabinsa. She transitioned to Sabinsa’s U.S. operations in January 2000, where she focused on driving sales, business development, and cross-departmental collaboration. Over the years, she has held key leadership roles that have shaped Sabinsa’s global presence.

Asha earned her MBA with a specialization in Marketing Management from Bangalore University, India. Her extensive experience, strategic acumen, and dedication to fostering strong teams have been instrumental in the Group’s growth. Asha firmly believes that a successful organization is built on teamwork and collaboration, and she is proud to have contributed to Sabinsa’s continued success over more than two and a half decades.

Barbara spent 21 years of her career with AT&T, one of the largest communications companies, working in departments such as Budget, Training Coordination, Human Resources, Sales Support, and CERC (Corporate Executive Response Center), handling verbal and written Customer Complaints which were directed to AT&T’s Corporate Office, Better Business Bureau, Federal Communications Commissioner and Consumer Services.

Barbara brings her customer relations experience to AFI as Manager of Sales and Operations, managing all customer communications and sales operations to work directly with AFI Customers ensuring all product requests are met and handled in a timely, efficient and effective manner.