Dr. Willie McKinney, Ph.D., D.A.B.T., is a recognized expert in regulatory science and inhalation toxicology with more than 20 years of experience in scientific research, product development, and regulatory strategy within the consumer-packaged goods industry. He earned his undergraduate degree from Xavier University of Louisiana and completed his Ph.D. in Environmental Toxicology at the University of North Carolina School of Public Health. As a Diplomate of the American Board of Toxicology, he holds one of the field’s highest professional credentials.

Dr. McKinney has held senior leadership roles at Altria and JUUL Labs, where he directed global regulatory science, toxicology, and product stewardship programs for complex consumer and aerosol-based products. He has contributed to regulatory submissions, scientific defense, and cross-functional innovation, and has also served on the FDA’s Tobacco Product Scientific Advisory Committee. In 2024, he founded McKinney Specialty Labs, LLC to provide specialized aerosol testing and GLP toxicology services, complementing McKinney Regulatory Science Advisors, LLC (founded in 2020). Together, these organizations offer over 25 years of combined expertise, delivering rigorous, client-focused solutions in highly regulated and evolving product landscapes.