Zach Vouga, Co-Founder and Co-CEO

Professional Overview

Zach Vouga is the Co-Founder and Co-CEO of Plant Power Fast Food, a leading sustainable fast-food chain, as well as the Co-Founder and General Partner of Donna Jean, a mission-driven venture capital firm. With a strong background in the food and hospitality industry, Zach is a seasoned entrepreneur and investor focused on driving positive change through sustainable business practices and impact-oriented investments.

Experience Summary

Current Roles

Co-Founder, Co-CEO at Plant Power Fast Food (2016-01-01 to Present)

Oversees the strategic direction and day-to-day operations of Plant Power Fast Food, a fast-growing plant-based fast-food chain with locations across the western United States

Leads the company's commitment to sustainable and ethical business practices, including the development of innovative plant-based menu items and the implementation of eco-friendly operations

Spearheaded the company's rapid expansion, growing the brand from a single location to over 50 restaurants in just 5 years

Co-Founder, General Partner at Donna Jean (2017-01-01 to Present)

Manages a portfolio of mission-driven investments, focusing on early-stage companies in the food, sustainability, and social impact sectors

Leverages extensive industry connections and expertise to support portfolio companies in achieving their growth and impact goals

Plays a key role in sourcing, evaluating, and executing investment opportunities that align with Donna Jean's mission of promoting sustainable and equitable economic development

Previous Experience

General Manager at Evolution Fast Food (2011-11-01 to 2015-12-01)

Oversaw the day-to-day operations of a successful plant-based fast-food restaurant, driving revenue growth and operational efficiency

Developed and implemented innovative marketing strategies to increase brand awareness and customer engagement

Cultivated a strong, customer-centric culture within the organization, leading to high employee retention and customer satisfaction

Academic Background

Zach holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of California, San Diego, where he graduated cum laude.

Areas of Expertise

Sustainable and ethical business practices in the food and hospitality industry

Entrepreneurship and startup management

Impact investing and mission-driven venture capital

Plant-based product development and operations

Effective leadership and team building

Professional Impact

Spearheaded the rapid expansion of Plant Power Fast Food, growing the brand from a single location to over 50 restaurants in 5 years

Helped secure over $50 million in funding for Donna Jean's portfolio companies, driving significant impact in the food, sustainability, and social impact sectors

Recognized as a thought leader in the plant-based and sustainable food movement, frequently speaking at industry events and contributing to relevant publications

Conclusion

Zach Vouga is a dynamic and visionary leader who has dedicated his career to building sustainable and impactful businesses in the food and investment sectors. With a proven track record of success and a steadfast commitment to driving positive change, Zach is poised to continue making a significant contribution to the industries he serves.