Beyond Meat Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

Beyond Meat has 4 executives leading key functions including strategy, communications, operations, and legal.

Driven by a commitment to innovation, Beyond Meat is dedicated to transforming the future of protein by offering delicious, nutritious, and sustainable plant-based meat products that meet consumer demand for healthier and more environmentally conscious options.

Leadership Roles at Beyond Meat

  • Founder & President & Chief Executive Officer - Ethan Brown
  • Chief Communications Officer - Shira Zackai
  • Chief Operations Officer - Jonathan Nelson
  • Chief Legal Officer & Secretary - Terri Witteman
  • Ethan Brown - Founder & President & Chief Executive Officer

    Ethan Brown, the Founder & President & Chief Executive Officer at Beyond Meat, directs the overarching strategy and vision for the company's plant-based meat product development, manufacturing, and market expansion. Overseeing global operations, Ethan Brown ensures the company's mission to transform the future of protein is realized through innovative product offerings across beef, pork, and poultry platforms. This leadership role involves driving market penetration in grocery, mass merchandiser, club stores, and natural retailer channels, alongside expanding presence in food-away-from-home sectors like restaurants and schools. By championing sustainable practices and consumer-centric product innovation, Ethan Brown solidifies Beyond Meat's position as a leader in the plant-based food industry, impacting both domestic and international markets. The Founder & President & Chief Executive Officer's strategic guidance is crucial for navigating the competitive landscape and achieving long-term growth objectives.
    Ethan Brown

    Shira Zackai - Chief Communications Officer

    Shira Zackai, the Chief Communications Officer at Beyond Meat, shapes and executes the company's global communication strategies, enhancing brand reputation and stakeholder engagement. Overseeing all internal and external messaging, Shira Zackai ensures consistent brand narrative across diverse platforms, including media relations, public affairs, and corporate social responsibility initiatives. This critical role involves articulating the company's mission and impact to consumers, investors, and partners, reinforcing Beyond Meat's commitment to sustainability and plant-based innovation. By managing crisis communications and proactively building positive relationships with key influencers, the Chief Communications Officer safeguards the company's public image. Zackai's leadership ensures that Beyond Meat's story of transforming the food system resonates effectively, supporting market growth and consumer trust in the United States and internationally.
    Shira Zackai

    Jonathan Nelson - Chief Operations Officer

    Jonathan Nelson, the Chief Operations Officer at Beyond Meat, spearheads the company's manufacturing, supply chain, and operational efficiency initiatives to support global product delivery. Overseeing production facilities and logistics, Jonathan Nelson ensures the scalable manufacturing of plant-based meat products, meeting demand across various sales channels. This role is vital for maintaining product quality and consistency, from sourcing raw materials to final distribution in grocery, club stores, and foodservice outlets. By optimizing operational workflows and implementing robust quality control measures, the Chief Operations Officer directly contributes to Beyond Meat's ability to serve both domestic and international markets effectively. Nelson's focus on operational excellence is fundamental to the company's growth strategy and its commitment to providing sustainable protein alternatives.
    Terri Witteman, the Chief Legal Officer & Secretary at Beyond Meat, provides strategic legal counsel and oversees all corporate governance matters for the company. Managing a broad spectrum of legal affairs, Terri Witteman ensures compliance with regulations across the United States and international markets where Beyond Meat operates. This includes advising on product development, intellectual property, contracts, and corporate transactions, safeguarding the company's interests. As Secretary, Witteman facilitates board operations and ensures adherence to corporate governance best practices. The Chief Legal Officer & Secretary's expertise is essential for navigating the complex legal landscape of the food industry, supporting Beyond Meat's expansion into grocery, foodservice, and retail channels while mitigating risks and upholding ethical standards.

    Explore Leadership Teams in Food & Beverage

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Beyond Meat Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Beyond Meat?
    Beyond Meat is led by Ethan Brown (Founder & President & Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Shira Zackai (Chief Communications Officer) and Jonathan Nelson (Chief Operations Officer).
    Who is part of Beyond Meat’s executive team?
    The executive team of Beyond Meat includes leaders such as Ethan Brown (Founder & President & Chief Executive Officer), Shira Zackai (Chief Communications Officer), Jonathan Nelson (Chief Operations Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Beyond Meat have?
    Beyond Meat has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Beyond Meat’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Beyond Meat includes roles such as Founder & President & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Communications Officer, Chief Operations Officer, Chief Legal Officer & Secretary.