SALINAS, CA - Each move we make in this industry is critical, as it may very well pave the road for our next journey in fresh produce. One expert, Joe Pezzini, knows this well, as the industry vet has just landed a new role with Taylor Farms. The supplier recently revealed it has appointed Pezzini as Senior Director of Agricultural Operations, effective on October 11.
“I’m excited to join the Taylor Farms team,” said Pezzini. “I look forward to contributing my expertise to the leadership of this innovative organization and working alongside some of the brightest minds in the industry.”
As Senior Director of Agricultural Operations, Pezzini will oversee Taylor Farms’ 42,000-crop-acre internal growing and harvesting operations, including Mission Ranches, Seco Packing, and Big Valley Labor, according to a press release.
Pezzini is a Salinas, California, native who began his career with the Ocean Mist® Farms group of companies in 1983—where he worked as a Farm Manager for Boutonnet Farms—and in 1987, he and his two partners started Valley Pride Custom Harvesting. Pezzini later went on to become Vice President of Operations at Ocean Mist Farms in 2001, where he was responsible for overseeing cooling operations, food safety, quality assurance, and human resources. In 2009, Pezzini became Ocean Mist Farms’ Chief Operating Officer and was then appointed to the Chief Executive Officer role in 2015.
Most recently, Pezzini served as a general partner with Valley Pride. As a distinguished member of the produce industry, Pezzini has served on many Boards and embraced volunteer opportunities, including his involvement with the Central California Grower-Shipper Association and Foundation, California Leafy Greens Marketing Agreement (CA LGMA), Center for Produce Safety, Produce Marketing Association, and Community Foundation for Monterey County.
Pezzini is also a Hartnell College alum and UC Davis graduate who obtained an MBA from the University of Santa Clara, the release noted.
“I have had the privilege of getting to know Joe while working together on many industry issues over the past 15 years,” said Bruce Taylor, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. “Joe brings extensive farming and harvesting experience, and we are delighted to have him join our Taylor Farms leadership team.”
A huge congratulations goes out to Joe Pezzini on his new leadership role and the impending growth of Taylor Farms!
