Dr. Gregory Yep, CEO of CJ Foods

CJ Schwan’s has a new interim CEO, the company announced Tuesday.

In a press release, CJ Schwan’s said that Dr. Gregory Yep, chairman of the CJ Schwan’s board and CEO of CJ Foods, has been appointed interim CEO.

CJ Schwan’s spokespeople said Yep will oversee CJ Schwan’s continued growth in partnership with the company’s leadership team, while guiding strategic priorities.

“This is an opportunity to build on the strong foundation already in place and position our business for even greater success,” Yep said in the news release. “Our vision is clear — to evolve into a dynamic, diversified food company and accelerate our leadership in global cuisine with speed and innovation.”

CJ Schwan’s said Yep has more than 30 years of leadership experience in food science, nutrition and biotechnology across different consumer goods and food-related businesses. Yep first joined CJ in 2023 as chief technology officer. He became CEO at South Korean-based CJ foods in 2025, the company said. Yep has a master’s degree and Ph.D. in organic chemistry from The Johns Hopkins University, CJ Schwan’s said.

CJ Schwan’s, which produces foods in brands including Red Baron and Tony’s pizza, Mrs. Smith’s desserts, and bibigo and Pagoda Asian-style foods, has 17 food manufacturing location in the U.S. In Tuesday’s press release, CJ Schwan’s said the company is continuing to invest in its future, and plans to open a new production facility in Sioux Falls in 2027.

“We will continue expanding the flavors we offer, strengthening our portfolio and delivering the quality and reliability our customers expect,” Yep said. “Our teams remain focused on seamless operations and exceptional service.”