WENATCHEE, WA - Major growth is ahead for CMI Orchards as the company announced several new leadership changes. The transition includes eight people shifting into new positions. 
“CMI has witnessed a remarkable upswing in the past decade,” noted Bob Mast, President, on the crucial role the leadership team is set to play. “We’ve nearly doubled our volume since 2014 and expanded our portfolio to ensure a year-round supply for our retail partners. Our staff size has grown exponentially, and we have placed a huge focus on staff development and operational improvements. As we anticipate further expansion, adding to our top-tier leadership team is absolutely paramount to our continued success.”
The leadership transitions are as follows and reflect their new titles:
- Joel Hewitt, Vice President of Sales
- Garrett Joeckel, Vice President of Operations
- Wade Baker, Production Manager
- Loren Foss, Vice President of Domestic Business Strategy
- Scott Agnew, Senior Director of International Sales
- Steve Reinholt, Export Business Development
- Steve Castleman, Senior Director of Strategy
- Robb Myers, Senior Director of Business Development
To hear from each leader on their varying expertise and plans for CMI’s future, see below. For additional information about their experience, click here.
Joel Hewitt, Vice President of Sales, CMI Orchards
“My journey over the last 13 years at CMI has been supported by our team of dedicated leaders and colleagues, and their incredible commitment to the business. The invaluable guidance and education I’ve received over the years from the CMI executive team, my teammates, the growers, and our business partners is paramount to where I am now, and I’m greatly looking forward to being part of the continual improvements and the evolution of our company for many years to come.”
Garrett Joeckel, Vice President of Operations, CMI Orchards
“Stepping into this new role is an incredible opportunity. The chance to collaborate with our operational support teams to take all phases of our business to the next level, as well as drive value back to our growers, is one I am humbled and extremely grateful for.”
Wade Baker, Production Manager, CMI Orchards
“Prior to last year, I had spent my career in the warehouse side of our business. Getting the chance to work on the sales side, and now in a position where I interact with both sides of the business, feels like it’s really come full-circle for me. I’m thrilled for what’s to come.”
Loren Foss, Vice President of Domestic Business Strategy, CMI Orchards
“I’m extremely honored and eager to be stepping into this new role. CMI’s retail partners value our branded apple varieties and our ability to execute on sales strategies. I look forward to joining the management team and creating new paths to driving growth in the marketplace and expanding our retail business while carving out opportunities to grow our premium lineup of branded products.”
Scott Agnew, Senior Director of International Sales, CMI Orchards
“By joining the team at CMI, I was able to learn from some of the best in the industry, such as Glady Bellamy and Bob Mast. It’s only through the strong support from the people around me here at CMI and at the warehouse where I began my career that I’m able to reach this milestone. It’s been 17 years since I started at CMI, and I have fully enjoyed every single one of them—and look forward to the next seventeen!”
Steve Reinholt, Export Business Development, CMI Orchards
“Joining together with CMI is exciting for me for a number of reasons. Combining Starr and CMI’s product lines and customer bases results in such a well-rounded operation that is nearly limitless. I’m truly energized by the opportunities this union has created.”
Steve Castleman, Senior Director of Strategy, CMI Orchards
“I’m enthusiastic about the potential for growth that CMI offers these high-caliber individuals. This presents a prime opportunity for them to introduce innovative ideas and propel the company and our business associates to new heights.”
Robb Myers, Senior Director of Business Development, CMI Orchards
“CMI is such a forward-thinking organization built by a team full of people who work exceptionally hard for our customers and growers. These changes are just a small indication of the star-power our team has. Getting the opportunity to coach, train, and guide these individuals toward success is a very special one.”
Bob Mast, President, CMI Orchards
“Each and every one of these team members stepping into their new roles have proven their dedication to excellence across the board, whether it’s leading their colleagues, servicing our customers, or supporting our growers. We are truly blessed by the amazing and talented team that is assembled here at CMI, and couldn’t ask for a better group to navigate our continued growth and bring the best-tasting fruit in the world to shoppers all across the globe.”
Congratulations on the new roles to this fantastic team!
