Westfalia Fruit Appoints Raina Nelson as President of USA Operations; Alk Brand Comments
OXNARD, CA - The ANUK team was excited to learn this morning that industry luminary Raina Nelson has landed a new role. Recently named as Westfalia Fruit’s new President of USA Operations, Nelson will take up her role with the company at the end of August. She succeeds outgoing President, Art Bruno, who is retiring after six years at Westfalia Marketing USA.
“I am excited to join the Westfalia Fruit Group,” says Nelson. “The company’s global avocado network is unparalleled. The vision to advance purpose-driven strategies in the U.S. is an incredible opportunity. Their impressive environmental, social, and economic objectives prove a strong commitment to sustainability and overall excellence. I look forward to working with the Westfalia Fruit global team and leading the U.S. team to build upon the great work Art and his team have begun.”
Nelson brings with her diverse experience in the fresh produce industry, including expertise in marketing, procurement, food safety, sales, and supply chain. She joins Westfalia Fruit’s global leadership team to head up the USA’s fully integrated business, providing 100 percent U.S. coverage from its own and selected partners.
According to a press release, Nelson is currently the Vice Chairperson for the Southeast Produce Council and serves on the Executive Committee of the United Fresh Produce Association. Most recently, she served as the Executive Vice President of Business Development for Calavo Growers, with specific focus on its Renaissance Food Group Division. There, she led a spectrum of business development and corporate initiatives. She also worked with C.H. Robinson and Fresh Del Monte Produce and holds a BSc in Food Science and Human Nutrition and MSc in Food Microbiology from the University of Florida.
“Westfalia Fruit is very pleased to welcome Raina to its global leadership team,” says Alk Brand, Chief Executive Officer. “Her experience and knowledge of the market are undeniable assets to Westfalia, the global avocado market leader. Avocado consumption per head in the USA is one of the highest globally, and the USA is therefore a key business territory for Westfalia. This presents many opportunities in developing the market, which I am confident Raina and the team can meet head on. Her contribution to upholding our diverse geographic footprint and annual 52-weeks supply will be invaluable.”
Congratulations to Raina Nelson on landing this new role! We can’t wait to see what’s to come.
