The Board of Directors of Daiya Foods recently announced the appointment of Michael Watt as its new CEO. Watt will lead all global operations for Daiya throughout North America and its continued international expansion. He will also serve as Director on Daiya’s Board of Directors.
Watt’s background includes senior leadership roles in large consumer packaged goods companies, such as Mars, Wrigley, Campbell’s, Johnson & Johnson, and, most recently, Baby Gourmet Foods. He is a Canadian native who brings over 15 years of global experience as a CEO and general manager directing operations throughout Australia, New Zealand, Asia-Pacific, and the US.
As CEO, the goals of Watt and his team include leading the plant-based movement and improving food choices for people and the planet. Daiya will be moving its operations to a new 400,000 square foot, LEED-certified, state of the art facility this fall, enabling significant growth potential for all its customers. Daiya’s Phase 2 expansion planned for 2020 includes a state-of-the-art innovation center and new corporate headquarters.
“After an exhaustive search with many experienced and talented applicants, we feel strongly that Michael is the right person to successfully lead Daiya into the future,” says Bill McHale, chairman of the Board of Directors. “In a marketplace of increasing competition and complexity, we are confident that his global experience, combined with his innovative mindset and strong leadership skills will position Daiya as a leading plant-based brand in our industry.”
Watt comments, “I am excited to be a part of this incredible brand and team. Our commitment to delighting consumers with great-tasting, high-quality, innovative products creates a significant opportunity for Daiya to positively impact people and the planet through our performance. Daiya is committed to changing the way our world eats as a leader in plant-based foods.”
Founded in 2008, Daiya Foods is one of the founding members of The Plant Based Foods Association. Its line of plant-based foods includes cheese alternatives, Burritos, Non-Dairy Frozen Desserts, Yogurt Alternatives, Pizzas, and Cheezecakes. Plus recent shelf-stable additions of Cheezy Macs, Cheeze Sauces, and Dairy-Free Dressings. All products are dairy, gluten, soy, and peanut-free.
