Leading Melbourne-based fresh produce trading company BGP International has announced management changes in response to strong growth over the past three years.
Expansion in BGP’s citrus and table grape volumes, which the company markets for packers in Australia, Egypt, South Africa, Pakistan, Turkey and the US, has prompted managing director Neil Barker to appoint his daughter Prudence Barker as CEO.
“Prudence is taking on the CEO role, and this will provide me with more time to build and expand our supply programmes for our extensive Asian client base,” explained Neil Barker.
With degrees in law and commerce, Prudence joined BGP International eight years ago after working as a senior consultant for Ernst Young. She has primarily been responsible for BGP's import programmes into Australia.
“Prudence brings a wealth of experience to the CEO role and has the skill set and ability to guide the further development of the business,” said Neil.
BGP International now employs 21 people spread over five countries, and handles over 2,000 containers of fruit annually, servicing over 200 clients, he noted.
“I am confident that my appointment establishes a stable management team for future growth in the business,” said Prudence. “I am looking forward to personally meeting all our suppliers and clients over the next year to further discuss their requirements.”
Neil will remain managing director with direct involvement in the various marketing programmes currently underway for BGP. “Both our packers and clients are extremely important, and I am sure the changes will enable us to continue to improve our service and value to them,” he said.
BGP’s sales team remains unchanged, with managing director Neil Barker, Asia trade manager Cindy Teoh, and export sales manager Patrick McGreesh.
