Produce supplier adds sales leader, promotes company veteran

Salinas, California-headquartered produce supplier Ippolito International has added 20-year fresh produce veteran Heather Fuller to its sales team.

Fuller, whose produce industry career began as a Salinas Valley field inspector, will serve as the company’s vice president of business development, according to a news release.

Fuller’s most recent sales management position was at Braga Fresh, where she helped grow the organic category in both commodity and value-added sales, according to the release. She has also held numerous volunteer positions at the International Fresh Produce Association on the Grower Shipper and Fresh Cut councils.

“I am passionate about working with our partners to develop programs, find solutions and grow their business, and I am thrilled to be joining this incredible company and talented team,” Fuller said in the release.

“Heather’s focus on customer development fills a need on our sales team,” Ippolito International president Ron Mondo said. “With her on board, we will expand our overall customer reach, especially in the retail segment.”

Ippolito International also promoted industry veteran Michele McNeece to the role of vice president of new business development. McNeece’s four decades of fresh produce industry experience include 12 years with Growers Express in Salinas, California. She most recently served as Ippolito International’s national director of business development.

In her new role, McNeece will continue to focus on new account development across both retail and foodservice channels, according to the release.

“Michele has a strong reputation for collaboration and integrity, and she is well-regarded for the energy and drive she brings to the business,” Mondo said.

Ippolito International is a second-generation, family-owned farming company that provides year-round supplies of Queen Victoria and Coast King brand vegetables.