SALINAS, CA - Naturipe Farms LLC has announced that Robert Verloop, Executive Vice President of Marketing, has resigned, effective today.
“After returning from my 23rd PMA Fresh Summit, I looked over the goals we have accomplished and the objectives that we have met over the last 8 ½ years, and in talking with Dwight, we both agreed that now was the right time for me to step aside,” said Verloop. “My immediate plans are to take off some time over the holidays, work on my golf game, spend time with my family, do some traveling and volunteer work and explore new opportunities and challenges.”
Verloop joined the company in February of 2008. He came on as a member of the executive team, responsible for:
- Global brand management
- All marketing functions
- Corporate communications
- New product development and innovation
He has also been a leader on the strategic planning team and, more recently, served as the COO of Naturipe subsidiary Naturipe Brands LLC. In that role he was responsible for the development of new strategic business units, leveraging the Naturipe brand and infrastructure, according to a press release.
“It’s hard to quantify all the contributions Robert made in his time at Naturipe,” said Dwight Ferguson, CEO of Naturipe Farms. “His impact on our marketing and strategy at Naturipe Farms and our subsidiaries has been significant and lasting. He is leaving us well-positioned for continued success and all of us at Naturipe wish him the best in his personal and professional future.”
Verloop brought a plethora of experience to the role, having started his marketing and management career with the California Avocado Commission and, after that, working for Sunkist Growers, Inc. as Vice President of Global Marketing and Licensing.
David Munger, Chairman of the Naturipe Farms Board of Directors, commented, “Speaking on behalf of the entire Naturipe family, we thank Robert for his years of excellent service. His contributions have made us a better company, especially for the benefit of our customers, consumers, growers and employees.”
Verloop is a frequent speaker and moderator at produce industry events, and has served on the Board of Directors for the PMA, CPMA, and PBH.
“It is impossible to put into words how much I have enjoyed working for the Naturipe organization. This is a very unique business model that balances the grower needs, with those of our customers, and consumers,” Verloop added. “It has been an honor and a privilege to work alongside our distinguished growers and staff, and be part of the incredible growth Naturipe Farms has seen over the years.”
The AndNowUKnow team congratulates Mr. Verloop on a successful tenure with Naturipe Farms.
