Weizhi Chen Ph.D.

Weizhi Chen, PhD, MBA, currently serves as the VP of VSM and PMO at Beyond Meat, overseeing the global plant-based poultry and pork businesses since October 2022. Prior experience includes roles as VP Head of Innovation at Planet Partnership and Co-Founder of Food Innovation Design LLC, where Weizhi Chen developed the BUILD(TM) NPD system to enhance innovation efficiency. Additionally, Weizhi Chen served as an Executive In Residence and Adjunct Professor at the University of Denver, co-designing a model for innovation and teaching core entrepreneurship courses, and as an Adjunct Professor at Johnson & Wales University, focusing on food science disciplines. Weizhi Chen's extensive industry background includes senior positions at WhiteWave Foods, Atkins Nutritionals, Dean Foods, Barilla Group, and Kraft Foods, with significant research and development leadership experience. Academic credentials include an MBA from Northwestern University's Kellogg School of Management and a PhD in Food Science with a focus on Cereal Chemistry and Plant-based Materials.