Fresh Produce Group has announced the appointment of Mano Babiolakis as CEO-elect of the company effective 1 June 2010.
Mr Babiolakis is widely known and well respected in both the local and international produce industries from his previous roles as CEO of CostaExchange and Chiquita Brands South Pacific from 2002 until early 2010.
During his time at CostaExchange, Mr Babiolakis managed the integration of the Chiquita Brands South Pacific into the Costa family business, leading to the formation of CostaExchange, which had 5,500 full time and seasonal employees in more than 40 locations with an annual turnover of A$700m.
"This is a most significant and exciting appointment in the evolution of our company. FPG has enjoyed dynamic growth in recent years and I am very proud that Mano has agreed to join us in this critical leadership position to continue to build and guide the future of FPG," Fresh Produce Group founder and CEO Robert Nugan said.
"His deep industry experience, high level relationships, knowledge and enthusiasm will be invaluable to help conquer the challenges before us."
Mr Babiolakis said he was excited by his new appointment, and that he looked forward to the challenges the role would present.
"Since leaving CostaExchange in January, I have met with many quality organisations both in Australia and overseas to determine my next career move," said Mr Babiolakis.
"I have known and respected Robert Nugan for many years and watched the expansion of FPG which has been impressive. I am very enthusiastic about working closely with him and playing my part in contributing to that momentum in the coming years."
Mr Babiolakis will work alongside Mr Nugan in the coming months before taking sole charge of the CEO role, at which time Mr Nugan will assume the role as executive chairman of the FPG Group.
