ONTARIO, CA - Strategic leadership changes are once again taking place in the fresh produce sector as FiveStar Gourmet Foods, the company behind the Simply Fresh™ brand, has appointed an esteemed executive to its team. The value-added supplier recently announced Michael Solomon will be serving as President, effective immediately. As President, Solomon will report to Tal Shoshan, Chief Executive Officer.
“Tal and I have a long history as both competitors and friends. I admire his drive and commitment to growth and innovation in the category,” said Solomon. “I’ve been impressed with FiveStar’s market position and have a strong vision for how we’ll collaborate to take the company to the next level. FiveStar has a modern, state-of-the-art infrastructure, an unparalleled food safety record, and the strongest innovation pipeline in the industry. It’s easy to see that FiveStar has a clear path for major growth, and I am really excited to join as President.”
As president, Solomon will be responsible for overseeing all day-to-day operations out of the company’s headquarters in Ontario, California. He will also spearhead the supplier’s innovations and growth strategies, according to a press release. He joins FiveStar Gourmet Foods from DOLE, where he also held the position of President.
Prior to holding the position at DOLE, the trailblazer served as President at POM Wonderful and President and CEO of Ready Pac Foods, leading the company to several years of record-breaking achievement. In addition to this, Solomon has run a successful business consultancy for over three decades.
“Growth and innovation in the fresh prepared foods landscape have only intensified through the pandemic. We are expecting continued strong performance and Michael’s specific expertise is a driving factor in our future success as a premium producer of smart and delicious fresh-prepared foods,” said Shoshan. “Michael will be working closely with us to streamline operations, identify new strategic partners, and help continue to strengthen our position as the fastest-growing brand within fresh value-added.”
Solomon also earned a degree in Business and Managerial Economics from Union College and a Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) from the Wharton School of Business.
Congratulations to this decorated leader on his new role!
