Bernard Treacy is stepping down as chief executive of LaManna Group next month – and stepping out of the fresh produce industry into a new role at the Commonwealth Bank.
Treacy, who took up the reins at LaManna Group six and a half years ago, will join Commonwealth Bank on 23 April as GM of corporate financial services, where he will lead the group’s team for corporate banking in Victoria and Tasmania.
Treacy, who has spent the past 20 years working in the international fresh produce business, told Fruitnet.com his decision to take on a new role in a new industry was focused on career development.
“The move is about career progression and learning, and the opportunity to continue on a path of leadership,” he said. “It’s also an opportunity to learn a new industry, and to further develop skills around finance and banking.”
LaManna Group is Australia’s largest banana grower-wholesaler-marketer as well as being a major player in the national fresh produce business. Originally owned by the LaManna family, the company was taken over by New Zealand-based company MG Marketing in 2005. Treacy, who began his career at Market Gardeners, took the helm at LaManna in the same year – and the company has undergone sizeable changes since then.
“We’ve undergone a major transition from a family-run business to one that is owned by corporate shareholders who were here when I arrived,” he explained. “We have integrated six separate businesses into one entity and developed our organisational capability and capacity on a sustainable basis.”
Treacy added that it was a fitting time for him to leave his role, given the position the company is now in. “The organisation is very strong – and the primary things we needed to do are complete,” he said. “From here, LaManna has a clear strategic plan in place with the capability in the business to continue down this path.”
“It’s been a great privilege to lead the company and help shape the culture and environment, and there have been many people that have supported me on that journey,” Treacy continued.
Glen Thompson will take over as acting CEO of LaManna while the group seeks a successor to Treacy. Thompson has been with the group since 2003, most recently serving as GM of strategy and partnerships and prior to that as CFO.
“I’ll stay with the group until 16 March to help with a smooth transition, and Glen has the Board’s full support as acting CEO while it reviews possible candidates for the role, both internal and external,” said Treacy.
Treacy brought extensive management experience in the international agribusiness sector to his role as CEO of LaManna. Prior to joining the group, he worked for Chiquita Brands International in Europe and North America. He also spent time with Enza Fruit UK in London and with MG Marketing in New Zealand.
