Fresh Del Monte Produce has announced that long-time company servant Youssef Zakharia is to succeed Hani El-Naffy as president and chief operating officer, effective today.
El-Naffy will reportedly become a consultant for the company until the end of February, and will subsequently remain a member of the board of directors.
In his new position, Zakharia will be responsibe for all of the company’s operating units worldwide and will report directly to Mohammad Abu-Ghazaleh, the company’s chairman and chief executive officer.
“Youssef has built an impressive track record of strategic and operational accomplishments, particularly in his years as a valued member of our management team,” said Abu-Ghazaleh. “He has proven to be a successful and trusted leader in our organisation. His wealth of experience across our global operations, particularly in Europe, Africa and the Middle East, make him the ideal person for this position. I am very pleased with his appointment to this critical role as we continue to execute our strategies to achieve sustainable growth.”
Zakharia has held various positions in the company’s management for over 16 years, most recently as executive vice president and as vice president, Europe and Africa. He has also served as vice president of the Middle East and North Africa region, vice president, human resources for Europe, Africa and Middle East and director of operations for Europe, Africa and Middle East.
