YUMA, AZ - Bard Valley Medjool Date Growers is honing in on its leadership team, recently announcing two new hires in addition to three internal promotions. As these leaders step into the limelight, Bard Valley is bolstering its sales and marketing teams which are instrumental in promoting long-term growth.

Derrick Stinnet has joined the company as the new Director of International Sales, bringing with him 15 years of industry experience with expertise in international trade. His prior positions include four years as the Vice President of International Sales and Marketing at The Grapery.

Liam Slavin has also been hired as Bard Valley’s Northeast Sales Representative. His background includes roles in sales and marketing with over 10 years of experience in the fresh supply chain industry. Prior industry experience includes a position as Senior Sales Executive at Robinson Fresh (C.H. Robinson Worldwide).

“Both Derrick and Liam bring an enthusiastic drive for results,” explains Neil Merritt, Director of North American Sales. “Their knowledge in the produce industry will be key in accelerating Bard Valley’s growth internationally and into new retail channels. This is an exciting time for growth as we continue to have record-setting harvest numbers. We are looking forward to pushing the date category to new highs.”

In addition to these new hires, Bard Valley has announced three promotions of key staff members. First, David Baxter was promoted to the role of Marketing Director. Having previously served as the company’s Brand Manager for two years, Baxter will play a more prominent leadership role in both consumer and trade marketing efforts. He brings a range of experience to this position as he leads brand strategy, communications, innovations, and data management.

Rocio Saldana, who joined the company in 2014, has also been promoted to assume the role of Senior Marketing Coordinator. In her new role, she will be responsible for helping accelerate the growth of Bard Valley Natural Delights through the expansion of the sales and marketing efforts.

Additionally, Elsa Salazar was promoted to Marketing Coordinator. Salazar joined the Bard Valley team nearly four years ago as a customer service representative, specializing in export. In her new position, she will be assisting various marketing and trade programs supporting the growth of the company.

“We are expanding our marketing programs across consumer, trade, and shopper both domestically and internationally,” states Merritt. “It’s an exciting time to be a part of the Bard Valley Date Growers Association. We are looking forward to pursuing every new opportunity for growth.”

David Anderson, Vice President of Sales and Marketing, also weighed in on these exciting promotions in a company press release.

“We are proud to recognize David, Rocio, and Elsa’s contributions to our company’s success with these well-deserved promotions,” states Anderson. “We are looking forward to seeing them continue to flourish in their respective careers.”

Congratulations to all of these fresh produce leaders as they enter their new roles!

Bard Valley Medjool Date Growers