Vanguard 2

L-R: Manuel Yzaga and Jaime Modonese 

Vanguard International has made a number of key appointments within its Peruvian operations following its recent acquisition of Challapampa ­– one of the South American nation’s leading table grape, citrus and pomegranate producers.

Manuel Yzaga will serve as general manager of Vanguard Peru and Challapampa, while Jaime Modonese has been appointed Vanguard Peru and Challapampa’s manager of finance and administration.

Yzaga previously served as grape giant Sun World’s consultant in Peru. He was responsible for introducing Sun World’s proprietary varieties to Peruvian growers and helping others to manage their plantings, farming operations, site selections, and varietal selections. He has also held general manager and director positions with various Peruvian agribusiness entities.

Modonese has worked as the finance and administration manager at Don Fermin for the last eight years, where he was responsible for the company’s financial management and IT systems. Modonese was also responsible for overseeing Don Fermin’s labour force, as well as representing them at board level on the Peruvian Association of Avocado Exports (PROHASS).

Yzaga and Modonese will be based at Vanguard’s new office in Lima.

“Following the acquisition of Challapampa we knew we required an experienced senior team to help oversee the 550ha operation,” said Craig Stauffer, CEO Vanguard International. “We are confident that Manuel and Jaime, alongside Darío, are the right fit to further grow this new global leader.”

Darío Nuñez will continue in his role as Challapampa’s vice president of farming operations, based in Ica.

US-based Vanguard is currently undergoing a substantial new planting programme with a host of new seedless grape varieties. Stauffer said the company was making significant further investments in Challapampa to strengthen its position in Peru, thereby supporting a year-round supply solution of fresh produce to its global customers.