International Fresh Produce Association’s (IFPA) VP of Membership Engagement and Sales Anthony Barbieri has announced his retirement after decades in the industry, effective Dec. 31.
IFPA’s Megan Nash, current director of education and talent, will step into the role of VP of membership engagement and business development on Jan. 1, reporting to Miriam Wolk, chief membership officer at IFPA.
“Anthony has been a valuable member of the IFPA, and formerly PMA, team for 15 years,” said IFPA CEO Cathy Burns.
“We’ve had the benefit of his retail insights to strengthen our connections with members across the global produce and floral community. Everybody knows AB! He leaves us with a strong member-focused business development team. We wish Anthony a well-deserved retirement that’s every bit as rewarding as the career that led to it. He will be missed.”
Barbieri joined IFPA (formerly Produce Marketing Association) in 2010 after 34 years at Acme Markets. His experience in retail informed his approach to creating a member-centric sponsorship and sales team, always focused on more than a transactional relationship but on creating a true community of producers, suppliers and professionals aligned around advancing produce and floral.
“It has been a true honor to serve this industry and our members, whose dedication and innovation continue to inspire me every day,” Barbieri said.
“From my early career in retail to my years at PMA and IFPA, I have always believed that our greatest strength is our people. I am deeply grateful for the trust, collaboration and friendship of this community and proud of all we have accomplished together to advance the produce and floral industry.”
Nash, Barbieri’s successor, joined the Center for Growing Talent (PMA’s charitable organization), in 2013. Previously, she worked in the industry for Country Fresh Mushroom Co. for five years.
“We’re very excited for Megan to step into this new role and continue the exceptional, member-focused approach the team is known for,” Wolk said.
“She is a leader that builds momentum not only through her own work but by empowering and including others. With her extensive network built over years of collaborating with our member community, she will be an incredible ally for our industry in this role.”
Nash’s leadership has influenced the steady growth of many of the talent programs, including Women’s Fresh Perspectives Portfolio, the Game of Leadership and Career Pathways. She also has led IFPA’s education team since the founding of IFPA.
“I’m honored to step into this new role and continue serving our incredible produce and floral community. I am deeply proud of the Education and Talent team and all we have accomplished together, and I’m grateful to Anthony for the strong foundation he has built,” Nash said.
“I look forward to working with my new team, engaging members in fresh and meaningful ways and building on that momentum to deliver even greater value across our industry.”
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