EIT Food announces new CEO

Effective from 15 January 2024, Zaltzman will take on the role of chief executive officer at EIT Food - a knowledge and innovation community dedicated to making the food system more sustainable - following a unanimous decision to appoint him by the supervisory board.

Zaltzman joined the organisation in 2021 and has served as chief impact officer since April 2023. An experienced senior executive, he previously held leadership roles with EIT Climate-KIC, Microsoft, and a range of organisations across the innovation and sustainability sectors.

In this position, he will be working closely with the EIT Food leadership team to develop the organisation’s mission-led, portfolio approach, whilst continuing to engage with the food system community to drive positive change.

Commenting on his new role, he said: “EIT Food brings together an amazing team, with a community of partners, entrepreneurs, students and organisations who are dedicated to food systems transformation. ​

“It is an incredible privilege to lead the organisation as we build on everything our community has achieved, and bring our focus and energy to tackling some of the biggest issues we face, from achieving net zero to making healthy food available to all and improving food system resilience. ​

“I am delighted to be taking the role, building on the fantastic legacy Andy has created, and continuing to work in the EIT KIC ecosystem, which is a unique and very special place within Europe’s innovation community.”​

Zynga, current CEO, whom Zaltzman will replace, has enjoyed a long and successful career, which included five years at helm of EIT Food.

“I am delighted that Richard has been appointed as our new CEO - coming from within the organisation, Richard’s deep understanding of the needs of EIT Food and our key stakeholders will ensure a smooth leadership transition in the next stage of our critical mission,”​ added Zynga. “It has been an honour and a privilege to lead EIT Food successfully for the past 5 years, and I wish Richard every success as he takes over the helm as the new captain of our ship.”​