California-based avocado grower Index Fresh Inc. has added Nick Garcia to its sales and business development team with an eye toward growth in all areas within the U.S. and a specific focus on expansion in the foodservice sector. The move positions the over 100-year-old avocado company to build upon existing relationships and cultivate new partnerships through consistency, reliability, and integrity.

Michelle Broom has resigned as president of the Ontario Produce Marketing Association, effective Feb. 11, 2022.

Over the last three years, Broom has been instrumental in supporting and executing the board’s strategic direction and she has implemented many new initiatives to ensure its continued growth and success as an association. Broom’s inspiring leadership has left a lasting impression on our organization, membership and community.

TUBAC, AZ — The Fresh Produce Association of the Americas announced new and returning board members during its recent convention. Leonardo Tarriba began the second year of his two-year term as chairman while Chairman-Elect Rod Sbragia from Tricar Sales and Past Chair Scott Vandervoet from Vandervoet & Associates have one year remaining in their positions. 

The following six distributors were re-elected to a two-year term for 2021-23:

Anthony (Buddy) Brago of Robert J. Ferrari Inc., a broker, grower and shipper of fresh produce located in Vineland, NJ, died Nov. 21 at Inspira Medical Center in Vineland. He was 63 years old and had pancreatic cancer.

Andrew Kamenitzer has joined Greenyard USA/Seald Sweet as an account executive for its sales team. Kamenitzer’s 20-plus years of sales and marketing experience will complement Seald Sweet’s sales team and support its strong position in the industry.

Walmart Inc. announced that Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Brett Biggs will begin transitioning from Walmart during this upcoming year, after 22 years with the company, to begin a new chapter of opportunities in both the for-profit and non-profit sectors.