With a Ph.D. in cell immunology and biology, Dr. Gali Artzi brings with her a rare combination of scientific knowledge, innovation leadership in both corporates and startups, and business experience in food ingredients and nutrition. From Enzymotec, to Frutarom and IFF, she’s held senior leadership roles and has a deep background scouting technologies, guiding product development, managing innovation and commercialization, and much more. Along the way, leveraging innovative new products and driving growth in both established and emerging markets.
Why do you believe in FoodTech? What drove you to choose this career?
Food is at the heart of every culture, every family, every memory. Working in FoodTech allows me to connect with people on a deeper level – to be part of something bigger than myself. I believe FoodTech can bridge the gap between personal well-being and global challenges. A vibrant ecosystem of passionate changemakers, from nimble startups to established players, all shaping the future of food. It’s not just about trendy gadgets; it’s about tackling food waste, feeding a growing population, and ensuring everyone has access to nutritious, sustainable food choices. It’s about rewriting the narrative of food and building a future where great taste doesn’t come at the cost of the planet or our health.
You’ve led large-scale innovation processes, like at global flavor and fragrance house IFF. What are some of your takeaways on how to turn innovation from vision into practical reality?
There are several key takeaways on going from vision to practical reality. That includes early engagement of stakeholders, true collaboration across backgrounds, promoting transparency throughout the process, breaking the journey into manageable pieces, and gathering early feedback from consumers. These are just a few guiding principles, but the key takeaway is that innovation is a journey, not a destination. We all have to embrace the process, celebrate diverse voices, and trust that will happen by building a culture of collaboration, transparency, and iterative learning.
What’s you favorite part of working with startups?
Working with startups is like getting a front-row seat to innovation fueled by agility and creativity. Startups move fast, must adapt fast, and aren’t afraid to challenge the status quo. I get to be a part of that whirlwind, brainstorming out-of-the-box solutions. But it’s not just about the thrill ride. What truly drives me is the shared mission. The founders aren’t just chasing profits; they’re driven by a passion to make a real difference in the world. I get to be a part of that journey, and it’s fulfilling to know my experience, support and guidance play a role in their success.