SAN FRANCISCO, CA - Recently, Fresh Solutions Network announced that NoKota Packers, a third-generation packer and shipper of red potatoes and an exclusive supplier of Side Delights® potatoes, appointed a new leader to drive the company forward. Carissa Olsen will succeed Steve Tweten as the new President and CEO of NoKota Packers.
“Having spent my entire career at this company, I am honored to move into this role of President and CEO. Starting as an Administrative Assistant and working my way through various parts of the business—food safety, HR, employee safety, grower relations, shipping and billing, and accounting—have helped me immensely with the nuts and bolts of the business operations,” noted Olsen. “My father, who will retire at the end of this season, was NoKota’s first employee, so I grew up around the business, following him while he worked in the plant and touring potato fields. Pairing my experience in various roles with my knowledge of the history and current operations has prepared me thoroughly for this position.”
According to a press release, Olsen joined the company 15 years ago as an Administrative Assistant. She then transitioned to the role of Director of Operations for six years before stepping into the role of Chief Operating Officer in February 2017.
“I have watched Carissa grow up at NoKota,” Tweten said. “I am confident she will continue to be innovative with our operation while preserving NoKota’s commitment to our employees, growers, and customers.”
During her career at NoKota Packers, Olsen has been active in the community with leadership roles, including serving as a church council trustee, president of daycare board, president of booster clubs, and treasurer of H509 scholarship board.
“We are thrilled that Carissa has accepted this role,” added Kathleen Triou, President and CEO of Fresh Solutions Network. “She will continue to lead with the same clarity of vision, mission, and purpose that has made NoKota successful over the last 40 years, while honoring the legacy of the founders and continuing it for future generations.”
In addition to this appointment, Mike Rerick, Vice President of Sales and Marketing, and Steve Johnson, Sales, will continue in their current capacity with the company.
“We are lucky to have them and their experience,” added Olsen. “I am thankful they will continue to fill those key roles in this transition.”
Olsen graduated Summa Cum Laude from Mayville State University with a B.S. in Business Education in 2003. She is also a graduate of the Dale Carnegie business immersion course and the Dale Carnegie leadership for managers course.
Congratulations to Carissa Olsen on her new position! For more exciting developments in the produce industry, stay up-to-date with AndNowUKnow.
