Michael Spinelli is a visionary leader at the forefront of sustainable food innovation, holding decades of experience in driving forward the intersection of business development and food system innovation. With a passion for challenging the way we think about agriculture, food production, consumption, and sustainability, Michael has dedicated his career to pioneering solutions that address pressing global challenges.

Throughout his career, Michael has developed a wealth of experience in various facets of sustainable food and process innovation. His journey began at Ben & Jerry’s with a commitment to social and environmental justice through procurement, marketing and R&D. Throughout his career with significant influence at Unilever, Sabra (PepsiCo/Strauss), he further honed his skills in identifying cutting-edge technologies and methodologies to enhance food production efficiency while minimizing environmental impact. With a passion for plant-based impact and a sense of urgency, Michael founded plant-based ingredient technology leader Nutriati. The company was sold to Tate & Lyle in 2022 where Michael led protein innovation in R&D and Open Innovation. Through collaborations with interdisciplinary teams, Michael has been impactful in developing groundbreaking solutions that push the boundaries of traditional agriculture and food systems.

At the heart of Michael's success lies his philosophy of servant leadership. As a seasoned executive, he has demonstrated a consistent and ongoing commitment to fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and excellence within his teams. Through his visionary guidance and mentorship, Michael empowers individuals to push boundaries, challenge conventions, and unlock their full potential. His inclusive leadership style and commitment to diversity and inclusion have earned him the respect and admiration of colleagues and peers alike.

Michael's contributions to sustainable food innovation are further underscored by his extensive portfolio of awarded patents. These patents stand as a testament to his ingenuity and creativity in developing novel solutions to some of the most pressing challenges facing our global food system. From advanced agricultural techniques to innovative food processing technologies, each patent represents a significant milestone in Michael's journey to create a more sustainable and resilient food future.

In addition to his professional endeavors, Michael is deeply committed to driving positive social and environmental impact through his work. Whether through advocacy, mentorship, or community engagement, he remains steadfast in his mission to create a more equitable, regenerative, and sustainable food system for generations to come. Michael believes that industry has a responsibility in shaping a transformative and brighter future for humanity and the planet.