A strong and growing produce company is seeking a highly driven and strategic President to lead the organization through its next phase of growth. This executive will provide clear vision, leadership, and direction across all commercial and operational functions, with a particular focus on sales, marketing, financial performance, and organizational alignment. Reporting directly to the Board of Directors, the President will be responsible for developing and executing strategies that accelerate growth, strengthen customer partnerships, and enhance profitability in a competitive and dynamic fresh produce market.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Planning

• Develop and execute comprehensive sales, marketing, and trade strategies aligned with company goals and long-term growth.
• Create annual and long-range budgets, ensuring financial discipline and accountability across the organization.
• Monitor industry trends, competitor activity, and customer needs to identify opportunities and adjust strategy proactively.

Commercial & Customer Leadership

• Lead, mentor, and develop high-performing sales, marketing, and logistics teams.
• Build and nurture strong relationships with key customers and partners to grow market share and drive customer loyalty.
• Set and manage sales goals, KPIs, and performance standards to ensure consistent, measurable results.
• Oversee pricing strategy, expense management, and revenue growth to support profitability.

Operational Excellence

• Ensure effective coordination between commercial, production, and logistics teams to deliver on customer expectations and operational capacity.
• Drive continuous improvement and innovation across the organization, implementing transformative solutions that enhance customer value, supply chain efficiency, and internal processes.
• Ensure existing business is actively managed to mitigate risks, uncover growth opportunities, and protect margins.

Organizational Leadership

• Communicate expectations related to performance, accountability, and productivity with clarity and consistency.
• Work closely with Human Resources to attract, develop, and retain top talent, fostering a culture of collaboration, purpose, and high performance.
• Ensure compliance with all legal, regulatory, and industry-specific requirements, including PACA and other produce-related standards.
• Support organizational revitalization efforts by guiding change, reinforcing strategic priorities, and maintaining strong internal alignment.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree required (Business or related field preferred); advanced degree strongly preferred.
• Minimum 10 years of sales or business development experience within the fresh produce industry.
• At least 10 years of leadership or senior management experience.
• Active involvement within industry associations, groups, or networks.
• Strong financial acumen with the ability to interpret P&L statements, manage budgets, and apply sound accounting principles.
• Proven track record in developing and executing long-term business, sales, and marketing strategies.
• Deep knowledge of contracting, negotiation, PACA regulations, and the broader fresh produce ecosystem.
• Demonstrated ability to motivate, develop, and lead teams.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to influence, negotiate, and build strong relationships across all levels.
• Strong analytical skills, with the ability to interpret data, evaluate market trends, and make informed decisions.
• Willingness to travel regularly to farms, customers, trade shows, and other industry engagements.
• Proficiency in MS Office Suite and general technology tools; experience in transportation/logistics is a plus.

 

Please contact Katie Settle,  katie@producecareers.com