The fresh produce company’s longtime leader will step down after decades of service, with board member and former CFO John Lindeman taking over as president and CEO while continuing his board duties
Calavo Growers has announced that Lee Cole will retire as president and chief executive officer on 8 December this year.
B John Lindeman, a member of Calavo’s board of directors and former Calavo chief financial officer, will succeed Cole while continuing to serve on the board.
“On behalf of the board and the entire Calavo family, I want to express our deep gratitude to Lee for his decades of outstanding leadership and his many contributions that helped Calavo become a trusted name in fresh and prepared foods,” said Kathleen Holmgren, who was elected chair of the board of directors of Calavo in October.
“He led the company through multiple market cycles, strengthening our operational foundation and expanding our global reach.
“Lee’s disciplined approach and focus on performance have set a high standard for our industry,” she noted.
Reflecting on his decades-long tenure, Cole said it had been a privilege to lead Calavo and work alongside dedicated employees, growers, and partners.
”I’m proud of what we’ve achieved together and confident that John’s experience and strong leadership will position the company for continued success,” Cole commented.
Lindeman was most recently CEO of Hydrofarm Holdings Group, and previously served as chief financial officer and corporate secretary of Calavo Growers from 2015 to 2020.
“We’re very pleased to welcome John back to the executive team,” Holmgren continued. ”He knows this company well from his time as CFO and as a current board member.
”John brings deep industry knowledge and strategic insight as well as significant experience in mergers and acquisitions that will serve Calavo well in advancing our strategic priorities.”
Lindeman said he is ”honoured” to return to Calavo and excited to lead a talented team.
“With the dedication and expertise that define Calavo’s culture, we are well positioned to deepen partnerships, drive growth, and create sustainable value for our shareholders,” he added.
