SUMMERLAND, BC, CANADA – Okanagan Specialty Fruits Inc. (OFC), which developed the non-browning Arctic® apple varieties, has announced the promotion of Jenn Armen to Vice President. Armen, a trained botanist, mycologist, and plant pathologist—who ran her own consulting company for a number of years—has worked in the specialty crops arena for 30 years and with OSF since 2010.

"As OSF continues to grow at a rapid pace, we felt it was necessary to expand the executive team, and Jenn has certainly proven herself to be an integral part of our company over the years," stated Neal Carter, President and Founder, in a press release. "It’s extremely exciting to see the company grow like this, and I am very certain of our business success with the strong leadership team we have in place."

Armen has worked overseeing business development and marketing activities for the company, including working on the commercialization efforts regarding the Arctic Golden apples to select U.S. markets this past fall. Her research has included the first commercially introduced biological control product for the post-harvest industry with regards to crop protection, as well as managing food safety and quality assurance programs for specialty food. During her time in the industry, Armen has drawn attention to the value of genetics.

"I look forward to continuing our production and commercialization efforts with Arctic apples and develop creative ways to improve the produce experience," said Armen. "I am honored to work with such a highly skilled team."

And we certainly look forward to hearing more from this brilliant and accomplished woman and to seeing the continued good she does for the industry.

Okanagan Specialty Fruits