The Greenery appoints David Markowski as new CEO

NETHERLANDS – Dutch fresh produce marketer, The Greenery, has appointed David Markowski as its new Chief Executive Officer.

Markowski, who has been with the group in various executive roles since November 2019, succeeds Steven Martina, who left for Zespri in August.

In his most recent position as group strategy director, he is widely regarded as one of the driving forces behind Focus 2025, a project to strengthen The Greenery’s competitive position and to boost returns to its partner growers.

“I am very much looking forward to ensuring the successful rollout of Focus 2025 in this role, with the aim of establishing a stronger competitive position and maximum value creation for our growers,” said Markowski, who was also previously the group’s director of growers.

Markowski previously held several management positions before joining The Greenery, including various European roles at telecom provider Liberty Global, within ABN Amro’s M&A team, and as COO at digital media agency 9024 Media.

According to The Greenery, during that time he led several transformations and supervised business takeover processes.

“Furthermore, these roles allowed David to demonstrate that he is able to accelerate the transformation of an organization and adapt it to changing circumstances by working from a clear vision and applying steady, hands-on leadership,” it observed.

As a major supplier of a range of fresh fruit and vegetables, The Greenery certainly plays a crucial role not only for growers but for also for consumers.

That importance seems likely to increase further, given that sourcing of the right products, along supply chains that are sustainable in every sense for all concerned, is going to be more of a challenge in the future.

Don Gann appointed new Senior Director Produce at Smart and Final

Meanwhile, Don Gann, former president of the Fresh Produce and Floral Council (FPFC), has been appointed the new Senior Director Produce, Floral and Bulk Foods at Smart and Final.

Aside from his preceding senior role as President of the FPCP, Gann had worked as a Senior Director of Produce Marketing and Retail at Stater Bros. Markets.

At the company, he will be responsible for overseeing the company’s produce, floral, and bulk food departments.

Gann will ensure that the departments are running smoothly and efficiently, and that they are meeting the needs of customers by developing and implementing strategies to increase sales and profitability, as well as managing budgets and expenses.

He joins Smart and Final during a crucial period of major growth and expansion.

The company recently announced their plans to add a new store triple play in Madera, California to boost the grocery shopping experience of their customers in the region.

“As a local Madera resident, I know families from across this community will benefit from Smart and Final’s unmatched grocery shopping experience, including our fresh produce, quality meats and extensive selection of club-sized items,” Madera Smart & Final Manager Samantha Bertoncini said in a statement.

“My team and I are committed to serving all members of our community with the best customer service and low prices on their favorite everyday essentials.”

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