CPMA welcomes Oppenheimer Group’s Walt Breeden as chairman
CPMA welcomes Oppenheimer Group’s Walt Breeden as chairman
TORONTO — Walt Breeden of The Oppenheimer Group officially took over as chairman of the Canadian Produce Marketing Association at the group’s 2013 convention, here. Mr. Breeden, who takes over for outgoing chairman Jim DiMenna, president of JemD Farms, is the sixth member of his company to hold the position and he expects his pathway during his term will be similar to Mr. DiMenna’s.
That pathway has three main action areas: market development, industry simplification and corporate services. Mr. Breeden noted that some of the strategies include a robust education initiative, encouraging healthy food choices for Canadians and expanding work with allied partners.
One of the key messages is to increase consumption for the benefit of consumers and the industry. This year’s convention delegates were able to see that message in action as delighted children from the Freggie’s Children’s program traveled from booth to booth learning just how delicious fruits and vegetables can be.
Mr. Breeden noted that the entire convention team did a great job with the trade show, and he looks forward to working on the 2014 convention in Vancouver, BC.
“CPMA staff are such dedicated and talented people, it will be a real pleasure to work with them,” he said.
The incoming chairman describes himself as a people person with a passion for produce. As the director of sales and citrus category manager for Canada for Oppy, he’s well acquainted with a busy schedule, which will stand him in good stead in the upcoming year. He does not find the prospect daunting.
“When you work in an industry with talented, passionate people, you all share the same goal to make the industry better for everyone,” he said.
