Former PMA Australia-New Zealand/Produce Plus Produce Marketer of the Year, Lisa Cork, has accepted a nomination to join the Produce Marketing Association’s (PMA) board of directors.
Most recently a member of both the PMA’s Global Development Committee and Demand Creation Strategic PlanningTask Force, Cork’s global experience, ability to think strategically and ask questions that challenge the status quo were recognised as assets by the PMA board.
“I’m highly motivated by the opportunity to increase fresh produce demand by offering unique ideas and strategic direction to brands and plan to continue to do so while supporting PMA in this new role,” said Cork, who is president and CEO of Fresh Produce Marketing.
“I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to serve on the board of directors and excited to explore new ideas that contribute to our industry and make the biggest impact possible.”
A Californian turned New Zealander, Cork’s career in fresh produce spans more than 30 years.
One of her most noteworthy contributions to the industry was during her tenure at Apio, where she created the Eat Smart brand – a forward thinking concept that continues to live up to its potential 25 years later.
Cork won the PMA Australia-New Zealand/Produce Plus Produce Marketer of the Year Award in 2013 for her work with Delta Produce Growers and their fresh sweet potatoes (called Kumara in New Zealand). She has also led the branding of Winter Sweetz grapefruit by Lone Star Citrus and Naturalls grapes by Borderland Organics.
“Lisa is an insightful produce professional, and her many years of experience assisting produce companies around the world to develop impactful strategies and build unique brands will help in bringing PMA’s new strategic plan to life,” said Richard Owen, vice president of global business development with PMA.
“One of PMA’s new focus areas is demand creation and this is also a passion and focus area for Lisa’s work. We look forward to tapping into her thought leadership and unique expertise for the benefit of the industry.”
