Founder & Chairman, Panda Restaurant Group, Inc.
As founder, chairman and co-CEO of Panda Restaurant Group, Inc. (PRG), the parent company of Panda Inn, Panda Express and Hibachi-San, Andrew Cherng has dedicated himself to a focused mission: “To deliver exceptional Asian dining experiences by building an organization where people are inspired to better their lives.” Andrew’s inside-out approach to both his personal and professional life has created an environment that puts people and guests before financials — a philosophy that has elevated PRG as the international leader in Asian dining experiences.
What started as a passion for food has evolved into a passion for life, learning and people. Whether improving the front-of-store experience or creating career paths for his associates. Andrew is known to encourage and inspire people to better themselves personally and professionally. The company embraces a core purpose to bring out the best in each associate and develop their capabilities – a direct result of Andrew’s passion for personal growth. In fact, the Los Angeles Business Journal named the company one of the best places to work.
Andrew is committed to furthering Panda’s 2020 Vision to “become recognized as a world leader in people development to be loved by our guests,” which also includes caring for the communities in which Panda serves. With his wife, Peggy, Andrew established Panda Cares and the Panda Charitable Foundation, which provides support to children’s organizations and disaster relief efforts with monetary and food donations as well as volunteer support. Over 22 Millions have been given back to communities nationwide.
Andrew earned his Bachelor of Science degree in mathematics from Baker University in Kansas and a Master’s degree in applied mathematics from the University of Missouri.
