Dr. Gregory Yep, chairman of CJ Schwan’s board of directors and chief executive officer of CJ Foods, has been appointed interim chief executive officer of CJ Schwan’s. The leadership change reinforces the Marshall, Minnesota, USA-headquartered frozen food company’s long term growth strategy and reflects deeper alignment with La Palma, California-based parent company CJ Foods.
Yep, a seasoned global food industry leader, will oversee CJ Schwan’s continued growth and operational execution in partnership with the company’s leadership team while guiding strategic priorities across the enterprise.
“This is an opportunity to build on the strong foundation already in place and position our business for even greater success,” Yep said. “Our vision is clear – to evolve into a dynamic, diversified food company and accelerate our leadership in global cuisine with speed and innovation.”
Yep has more than three decades of leadership experience in food science, nutrition and biotechnology across numerous consumer goods and food-related multinational businesses. Joining CJ in 2023 as chief technology officer, he helped shape the company’s global R&D strategy, launched transformative product platforms and expanded strategic partnerships to fast track innovation. He became chief executive officer for Seoul, South Korea-based CJ Foods in 2025.
Serving both retail and foodservice customers in the United States, CJ Schwan’s is active in the frozen pizza sector with brands including Red Baron, Tony’s, Big Daddy’s, Villa Prima and Freschetta. Its frozen desserts line offers Mrs. Smith’s and Edwards label products, and its and Asian-style food brands include bibigo and Pagoda.
With 17 food manufacturing locations in the America, the company plans to open a new Asian-style food production facility in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, in 2027.
“We will continue expanding the flavors we offer, strengthening our portfolio and delivering the quality and reliability our customers expect,” said Yep. “Our teams remain focused on seamless operations and exceptional service.”
