Fresh Del Monte Produce Inc. has named Mark Gagnon vice president of sales – South region to accelerate growth across the Southern United States.

Joel Nelsen, who spent almost the entirety of his produce career as an association executive, including 37 years with California Citrus Mutual, died of an apparent heart attack at the age of 78.

Mr. Nelsen was born in San Diego on Sept. 27, 1946, and died on July 1, 2025, while traveling to pick up his 12-year-old grandson for an extended California stay.

The California Fresh Fruit Association has hired Clayton Smith to serve as its new director of government relations. He comes to the association after serving as a legislative assistant in the U.S. House of Representatives.

“On behalf of CFFA’s leadership, we are thrilled to welcome Clayton to the Association," said CFFA Board Chairwoman Melissa Frank of the Wonderful Company. "His experience working in Washington, DC, along with his background and education will be of great value to our membership.”

Seven new members have been elected to Equitable Food Initiative's board of directors. These individuals bring a broad range of expertise in agriculture, sustainability, ethical sourcing, labor rights and consumer engagement.

Newly appointed board members are:

Longtime California agricultural leader Don Smith, who remained active in the industry and in his farming operation until the end, died on July 3 at the age of 95.