The Oppenheimer Group has announced a number of strategic changes designed to bolster the fresh produce company's pursuit of growth and delivery of its 'expect the world from us' promise.
Former director of West Coast sales Eric Coty was named executive director, South American imports, where he will oversee Oppy’s procurement strategy for all South America-grown items.
With that promotion, Coty will work closely with Oppy’s executive category directors associated with berries, grapes, stonefruit, apples, pears, kiwifruit, mangoes and citrus, as well as its sales team, grower relations staff and grower partners to 'ensure Oppy secures a comprehensive and continuous supply of fresh produce for customers across North America'.
“Eric’s excellent relationships with growers, alongside his understanding of the nuances of our customer base and excellent results with key Oppy accounts position him for success in the new role,” said Doug Grant, executive vice-president and chief operations officer. “As executive director, South American Imports, Eric will ensure a consistent methodology across all categories for planning, procurement, programmes, communication, and coordination with our base of South American growers.”
Oppy sales veteran of nearly 30 years Walt Breeden will absorb the role left vacant by Coty, becoming vice-president sales, Canada and US West Coast.
The efforts of Steve Young, who was promoted to director of sales, Canada, in April, will support Breeden, assuring Oppy’s Canadian business remains focused on strategic growth.
“Walt and Steve will do a great job assuring the needs of our Western US and Canadian customers are covered,” said David Smith, executive vice-president and chief marketing officer. “We are excited to bring Eric’s expertise closer to our South American grower base. These moves truly strengthen Oppy’s ability to tend to our growers’ interests while innovating and delivering the best possible solutions to our customers.”
In support of these changes, Tampa sales manager Carl Immenhausen will continue to be responsible for strategic and tactical management of Oppy’s pivotal South American air programme, while Newark sales manager Bill Poulos will continue in the role of director of import grapes and stonefruit.
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