ORANGE COUNTY, CA - Put your hands together for Darren LaMothe! The produce vet has been a vital member of the industry and recently earned a promotion to prove it. Zespri™ named LaMothe as its new General Manager to oversee North American operations. He will assume the responsibilities from Dan Riley, who served in the role since early 2021.

“I am excited for this new opportunity within the organization,” explained LaMothe. “We have a great team in place, and together, I look forward to building upon Zespri’s success as the #1 fastest-growing fruit. I am also excited to work with our retail and distributor partners to continue our successful trajectory of growing the category by providing the best-tasting kiwifruit to consumers.”

LaMothe has established himself as an integral member of the Zespri leadership team for the past four years, a press release stated, developing the supply chain team in North America and Europe with reset efforts resulting in continuous improvements and standardization.

Previously, LaMothe had 18 years of experience in fast-moving consumer goods, technology, and fresh produce across different roles including Supply Chain Optimization, Global Account Management, and E-Commerce and Fulfillment Operations at organizations such as PepsiCo, Syncreon (DP World Company), and Procter & Gamble. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and recently graduated in 2023 from the University of Arizona with an MBA in Finance. He also holds certification as a Supply Chain Profession, Planning & Inventory Manager, and Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certification.

“We are excited to support Darren as the General Manager as he transitions from his outstanding efforts managing and improving our supply chain program. His business acumen and people-forward mindset will be vital as we continue to expand our business,” stated Linda Mills, Zespri’s Acting President, Europe and North America.

Congratulations to Darren LaMothe on entering this new role!

Zespri™