San Francisco, California-based The SF Market, San Francisco’s original wholesale produce market home to 26 merchant businesses, announces changes to its Board of Directors.
A new board president has been elected in addition to key role changes and the election of three new members.
“We are excited to welcome new voices and talent to our board. In addition to their essential governance role, The SF Market Board contributes invaluable expertise and perspective to help advance our strategic priorities,” said Michael Janis, general manager and executive director for The SF Market.
“These volunteers are critical to our work providing the food infrastructure, programs, and relationships that help hundreds of farmers, Bay Area food businesses and our communities thrive.”
After six years of leadership, Eli Zigas, current board president, has completed his term and is stepping down. Zigas navigated the board through the uncertainties of the global pandemic. He has been instrumental in The SF Market’s growth, presiding over the development and execution of the organization’s second-ever strategic plan.
“I am proud of what we have accomplished over the last six years and have greatly valued the talent and dedication of my fellow board members, The SF Market’s merchants, staff and other volunteers,” Zigas said. “I look forward to The SF Market’s continued growth and vibrancy as it supports the region’s food system.”
With the departure of Zigas, Virginia Hines has been elected the new board president. Hines brings a global perspective with more than two decades of experience as a business leader in Silicon Valley at companies such as Yahoo and Walmart.
“As a longstanding Board member and champion of The SF Market, I am honored to step into this role and continue to support and promote our merchant businesses,” Hines said.
“I look forward to further catalyzing The SF Market’s role as a leader and partner to the Bay Area’s world-renowned food businesses, and the entire regional food and agriculture community.”
The SF Market is adding three new members to the board.
Leslie Krasny, president of Krasny Law Office, has an extensive background in food law, and has held legal and executive positions in the food industry for 35 years.
Kevin Barnett brings experience in institutional partnerships in the health care and community development space as the executive director of the Center to Advance Community Health and Equity at the Public Health Institute.
Larry Balestra is a SF Market merchant, and along with his wife Lisa, owns S&L Wholesale Produce. He brings produce industry expertise as a fourth-generation farmer operating out of Suisun Valley.
More information about The SF Market Board of Directors can be found here.
