Wide Open Agriculture shakes up its leadership with a new board appointment and plans to recruit a CEO experienced in scaling plant protein businesses, signaling a strategic push to globalise its lupin protein technology.
- Vincent Lauwerier appointed Non-Executive Director
- Anthony Maslin resigns from the Board
- WOA to recruit a CEO with scale-up expertise
- Focus on expanding lupin protein technology globally
- Board transition aims to accelerate company growth
Leadership Changes Signal Next Growth Phase
Wide Open Agriculture (ASX – WOA), a pioneer in plant-based protein ingredients, has announced significant changes to its board and executive leadership as it prepares to scale its innovative lupin protein technology globally. The company welcomed Vincent Lauwerier, Managing Director of Malteurop Australia & New Zealand, as a Non-Executive Director, while co-founder Anthony Maslin stepped down from the board.
Lauwerier brings over 15 years of international experience in general management, finance, operations, and supply chain within the fast-moving consumer goods and food manufacturing sectors. His background includes leadership roles at major global firms such as Asahi, L'Oréal, and Procter & Gamble, positioning him well to support WOA’s ambitions to expand its footprint in global markets.
Honouring Foundational Leadership
Anthony Maslin, affectionately known as Maz, has been instrumental in shaping Wide Open Agriculture’s vision and commercial foundation. As a co-founder, his dedication to regenerative agriculture and ethical food systems helped establish the company’s reputation as a leader in lupin-based plant protein innovation. The board expressed sincere gratitude for his contributions during the company’s formative years, acknowledging that his leadership laid the groundwork for the next stage of growth.
Strategic CEO Recruitment to Drive Scale-Up
In a move to further accelerate growth, WOA is actively seeking a new CEO with proven experience in scaling plant protein and food ingredient businesses on a global scale. This leadership change aims to replace outgoing CEO Matthew Skinner and will be critical in executing the company’s growth strategy. The new CEO will work closely with the board to navigate the complexities of global expansion and commercialisation of WOA’s flagship product, Buntine Protein®.
Buntine Protein®, a patented lupin-derived plant protein, is gaining traction for its clean taste and versatility across multiple food categories, including plant-based dairy, meats, baked goods, and health foods. The company’s focus on sustainability and innovation positions it well within the rapidly growing plant-based ingredients sector.
Looking Ahead
Wide Open Agriculture’s leadership reshuffle and strategic hiring underscore its commitment to scaling its unique plant protein technology internationally. With Lauwerier’s commercial expertise and the anticipated appointment of a seasoned CEO, the company is poised to strengthen its market position and accelerate growth in an increasingly competitive sector.
Bottom Line?
WOA’s leadership overhaul sets the stage for a pivotal growth chapter; investors will watch closely for the new CEO’s appointment and strategic direction.
Questions in the middle?
- Who will be the new CEO and what specific scale-up experience will they bring?
- How will the leadership changes impact WOA’s near-term commercial partnerships and production plans?
- What are the company’s timelines and targets for global market expansion of Buntine Protein®?