Anita Gogia has been named chief financial officer of Elmwood Park, New Jersey, USA-headquartered Dr. Praeger’s, an innovator in the better-for-you frozen food market specializing in value added plant-based vegan and vegetarian products made from simple ingredients.
“I’m thrilled to welcome Anita to the team,” said CEO Andy Reichgut. “Her deep financial expertise along with proven ability to drive results and build high-performing teams will be strong assets to us. We are confident that she will play a significant role in our business going forward as we drive category growth with exciting, disruptive innovation.”
An accomplished financial executive, Gogia brings a wealth of experience from both public and private equity-backed companies in the consumer-packaged goods and distribution industries. Prior to joining Dr. Praeger’s, which is a portfolio company of Vestar Capital Partners, she served as senior vice president of financial planning and analysis at Imperial Dade for over five years. Before that, she held various finance leadership roles during her almost 30-year tenure at CPG companies including Kraft Foods, PepsiCo and Pinnacle Foods (acquired by Conagra Brands).
“I am excited to join Dr. Praeger’s at such a pivotal moment in its journey,” said Gogia. “The company’s strong vision, innovative approach and commitment to growth are incredibly inspiring. I look forward to applying my experience and collaborating with the talented team to drive continued success and long-term value creation for the brand.”
Dr. Praeger’s was founded in 1994 by cardiothoracic surgeons Peter Praeger and Eric Somberg to create nutritious, convenient, and tasty frozen food products that encourage healthier eating. Its wide range of retail and foodservice offerings today includes veggie burgers, meatless meatballs, chickenless chicken, veggie sausage and veggie fries. All are OU Kosher and Non-GMO Project Verified.
