Visions for company’s future direction “no longer aligned,” says outgoing head, as Lennart van den Heuvel steps in
Desmond Jas has stepped down as head of Dutch company Olympic Fruit, after almost four years in the role.
The firm’s director and owner Lennart van den Heuvel, who is also CEO of parent company Olympic Food Group, has taken on the role, effective from the start of October.
“After having made a significant contribution to the transition and growth of the organisation over the past four years, I feel that now is the right time for the next step in my career,” Jas commented.
“This decision was made in close consultation with the board and management team. We’ve had an incredible journey, and I would never want to leave the people and the mission of Olympic Fruit.
“However, we have come to the conclusion that there is a difference in vision regarding the direction we should take in the coming years.”
According to Jas, an agreement was in place at the start of his tenure to part ways if their visions for the company no longer aligned.
“Based on this, we have decided to pursue our own paths,” he explained. “I plan to take the time to consider my next steps. I want to thank Lennart, my colleagues, and especially our partners and customers for the great cooperation, and I wish them all the best.”
In a statement, Olympic Fruit said the company had undergone a “remarkable transformation and development” with Jas at the helm: “We thank Desmond for his contributions and wish him all the best for the future.”
