Rivermaid Trading Co. has hired Kyle Persky to fill the role of sales manager for its fresh pear and cherry business. Persky will be based in Rivermaid’s Lodi, CA, office and began his role as sales manager on Feb. 1.Kyle Persky

Prior to joining Rivermaid, Persky was employed at Scully Packing Co., one of California’s larger pear grower-packer-shippers. Persky managed domestic and international sales for Scully Packing 2008-15, focusing his efforts primarily on key North American retail and wholesale customers. Persky worked for Carter Thomas LLC for six years prior to his employment at Scully Packing, managing pear sales in the United States and Mexico.

“There have been significant changes in the California pear industry since I began my career in pears 14 years ago," Persky said in a press release. "The total fresh pear volume has adjusted from an oversupply situation to a level that is now more sustainable going forward. The California pear deal is a very relevant part of North American retailers’ pear category calendar. As the California pear category leader, Rivermaid is stable and well-positioned in the market. I’m looking forward to advancing our success.

“My primary goal at Rivermaid is to work with the sales team to optimize distribution opportunities in California cherries and pears, ultimately providing our growers with the highest possible returns," he said. "Over the years I’ve developed strong relationships with retailers and wholesalers throughout North America. My experience has given me the knowledge of how to deliver fresh produce across many distribution channels.

“I’m particularly excited about the fast-approaching cherry season," he added. "Rivermaid has made significant investments in the field and packinghouse over recent years and are set to thrive in the intensely competitive market. I think we have the best cherry program among the California shippers."

Patrick Archibeque, chief executive officer of Rivermaid, said hiring Persky was not a difficult decision. "Kyle and I worked worked together at Carter Thomas for two years, plus we’ve been competitors in the pear business for many years now," Archibeque said in the release. "I have first-hand knowledge of Kyle’s capability and work ethic. And, as a long time competitor I know Kyle understands Rivermaid in ways only a competitor can. His knowledge will bring additional strength and insight to our team.”