The Giumarra Companies has hired Alexandra Cody as Long Beach Division manager and Jon Heath as business development director, additions the international fresh produce network said reflect continued investment in customer growth, category expansion and long-term business development.
Founded in 1922, Scottsdale, Arizona-based Giumarra is an international network of fresh produce growers, distributors and marketers.
Cody is responsible for the leadership, strategic direction, financial performance and operations of the Long Beach, California, division, which handles national sales for table grapes from all origins as well as South American tree fruit. She will oversee sales, procurement, grower relationships, customer development, inventory management and business planning. A University of Arizona graduate, Cody has nearly a decade of progressive sales roles in the table grape industry at Columbine Vineyards and, most recently, Castle Rock Vineyards.
“We were impressed with Alexandra’s drive, commercial acumen and commitment to the industry,” said Sebastian Carmona, VP of international development. “Her experience, leadership skills and deep understanding of the grape category make her exceptionally well positioned to lead our sales team and help grow our business for both customers and grower partners.”
“I’ve spent my career in the table grape industry, and I look forward to bringing that experience to a company with Giumarra’s global reach, strong grower partnerships and long-standing reputation in produce,” Cody said. “I’m especially excited to work alongside the team to strengthen customer and grower relationships, expand our year-round grape program and build on the tremendous opportunities ahead.”
As business development director, Heath is responsible for growing key customer accounts, developing new business opportunities and executing sales and marketing initiatives throughout the company’s fresh portfolio, collaborating with its sales divisions. His background includes account management and business development at C.H. Robinson Worldwide, where he drove account growth and retention for regional and national retail customers, along with senior sales roles in finance, retail and event planning.
“Jon will be a valuable asset to the business development team at Giumarra, which serves as a bridge between our retail partners and our sales teams,” said Kristina Lorusso, VP of retail partner services. “He understands the complexities of the produce business and has a strong ability to connect customer needs with the right capabilities across sales, marketing and services.”
“I’m incredibly grateful to join the Giumarra team at a time when the company is poised for significant growth,” Heath said. “I look forward to building on the strong foundation already in place and bringing my experience in deepening relationships and developing solutions that create mutual success. I’m excited to collaborate with our teams, partners and customers to identify new opportunities that deliver meaningful value across the supply chain.”
Cody and Heath will join the Giumarra team at the IFPA Global Produce & Floral Show, Oct. 14-16 in Orlando, Florida, at booth 3755.
Related: Giumarra Companies Promotes Carmona, Lorusso To VP Roles