Luc Clerx Bert Barmans

Luc Clerx and Bert Barmans pictured at the FRESH congress in Antwerp

Leading international kiwifruit marketer Zespri has revealed two major changes to its senior management structure in Europe.

In a letter addressed to all of its customers, the company confirmed that Bert Barmans has taken over from Luc Clerx as general manager of Zespri International Europe & Middle East, Indian Ocean and Africa.

Mr Barmans, who has worked at Zespri Europe for more than 10 years, began his career as market manager for Benelux and has in the past four years been working as the group's European sales manager.

Effective from 1 April 2011, Mr Barmans is heading up daily management of the company's European operations.

Mr Clerx, meanwhile, has been appointed as director of Zespri Europe, and will focus on strategy and external affairs, as well as providing advice and support to the organisation.