Mission Produce Inc., a global leader in sourcing, producing and distributing fresh Hass avocados, announced a planned leadership transition. Co-founder and CEO Steve Barnard will assume the role of executive chairman of the board, and President and Chief Operating Officer John Pawlowski will become CEO, effective at the close of the company’s annual meeting of shareholders in April 2026.

The transition reflects Mission’s long-term succession planning and the depth of its leadership team across retail, wholesale and foodservice channels for avocados and mangos.

For more than four decades, Mission has helped shape the modern avocado category by advancing vertical integration, expanding global operations and pioneering ripening expertise. The company has built a global distribution network serving customers across North America, China, Europe and the United Kingdom.

“As we plan for Mission’s next chapter, I’m proud of the team that has grown this business from a local operation into a global leader,” Barnard said. “This transition ensures continuity for our customers and grower partners. Since joining Mission, John has brought strong leadership and operational expertise, and I am confident his strategic vision and global food industry experience make him the right leader for our next phase of growth.”

“I am honored to take on the role of CEO and grateful to Steve and the board for their confidence,” Pawlowski said. “Mission is well positioned to continue elevating the avocado and mango experience by partnering with retailers and foodservice operators to grow consumption, improve consistency and accelerate growth. I look forward to building on the strong foundation already in place.”

Pawlowski joined Mission in April 2024 as president and COO. He has more than 25 years of experience in the global food and foodservice industry, with expertise in business development, system optimization and executive leadership. Before Mission, he served as president and COO of Lipari Foods and spent more than 16 years at J.M. Smucker, including as vice president of international. He holds an MBA from Kent State University and a bachelor’s degree in marketing from Miami University.

Since joining Mission, Pawlowski has led initiatives focused on process improvement, logistics optimization and productivity, supporting the company’s vertically integrated model and strengthening service for retail and foodservice partners.

As executive chairman, Barnard will chair the board and provide strategic oversight, working closely with Pawlowski and the leadership team to advance Mission’s long-term vision for responsible growth and category leadership.