Fireside Chat with King's Hawaiian

Join the UC Davis Food and Wine Leadership Club for an engaging and interactive fireside chat with Joe Garrigan, vice president of innovation at King’s Hawaiian.

This event blends business, creativity and food innovation in a way that is both practical and meaningful. King’s Hawaiian, known for its soft, sweet rolls and family-oriented culture, began as a modest bakery in Hilo, Hawaii, and has since become one of America’s most renowned food brands. At the heart of that growth is a commitment to balancing tradition and innovation, which Garrigan helps to lead every day.

Garrigan will discuss his career journey and how he found his path into food and beverage innovation, providing an inside look at what it takes to turn creative ideas into products people love. He will also share how companies like King’s Hawaiian stay true to their roots while adapting to new markets, changing consumer tastes and evolving technologies. Expect candid insights into how great businesses experiment, grow and earn trust, all while maintaining their unique stories.

This is a valuable opportunity for business students to learn about how established brands approach growth, sustainability and innovation leadership. Garrigan will explore how collaboration, storytelling and business strategy come together to create products that connect with consumers, as well as what lessons future leaders can apply to their own careers in CPG, hospitality or ag-tech.

This fireside discussion, moderated by members of the Food and Wine Leadership Club, aims to be both educational and enjoyable. You’ll come away with real-world insights that connect classroom learning to industry challenges, as well as inspiration from someone helping shape the future of food innovation.

Who Should Attend

This event is open to all interested in brand strategy, sustainable food systems, entrepreneurship or the hospitality industry. It’s an excellent opportunity to network, ask questions and see how corporate leadership and creativity intersect in the world of food.