FRANCE – Standing Ovation, a French precision-fermented protein start-up, has appointed Yvan Chardonnens as its new CEO. 

Chardonnens brings 30 years of experience in scaling global B2B companies and is expected to lead the company through its next phase of industrial-scale production. 

Before joining Standing Ovation, he served as chief commercial officer at Oterra and held key roles at Firmenich, International Flavors & Fragrances (IFF), Barry Callebaut, and Roquette.

I am excited to be part of an innovative company that has the potential to impact food ecosystems and contribute solutions to climate challenges positively.” Chardonnens said. 

He highlighted the company’s achievements under co-founder and managing director Romain Chayot and emphasized their shared focus on obtaining regulatory approval, enhancing market strategies, and launching large-scale production of Advanced Casein.

“After years of research and innovation, it’s time to accelerate toward mass production and distribution of Advanced Casein,” Romain Chayot added.

He praised Chardonnens as a pioneer in product development, noting that their combined expertise will help Standing Ovation become a global leader in alternative proteins and food transition.

Raises €3.75M to scale production of sustainable protein

In addition to the leadership change, Standing Ovation has raised €3.75 million in a Series A+ funding round, which is in addition to the €12 million raised in 2022. 

The funding will help advance the production of the company’s flagship product, Advanced Casein, a protein that emits ten times less CO2 than traditional animal-derived milk proteins and is free from antibiotics and GMOs.

With total funds now at €23 million, the company aims to finalize preparations for industrial-scale production by the end of the year, positioning itself as a critical player in the sustainable food sector

Standing Ovation raised the €12 million in 2022 through a Series A round led by Astanor Ventures, with backing from Bel Group. The latest Series A+ round brings the total funds raised in four years to €23 million.

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