The Oppenheimer Group has confirmed the appointment of Dawn Gray as senior vice-president of sales, marketing and categories from next spring.
Ms Gray, who has served as general manager for New Zealand pipfruit marketer Enza since early 2007, will take up the post on 1 April, 2009. She will take on many of the responsibilities of Oppenheimer senior vice president Bob Dunlop, who retires at the end of 2008, following 24 years in leadership positions with the organisation.
“This long transition is a bit unconventional, but it actually makes a great deal of sense,” said John Anderson, Oppenheimer’s chairman, president and CEO. “It enables Dawn to continue in a leadership capacity at Enza while a new general manager is found. She will spend time with us in Vancouver in the interim, so she can work closely with Bob before his retirement, creating a transition that is as seamless as possible for both organisations.”
He added that with over 30 years experience in the fresh fruit and vegetable business, Ms Gray would bring a depth of relevant expertise into her role at Oppenheimer.
When she arrives at Oppenheimer, Ms Gray will continue to work closely with Enza. Oppenheimer has been Enza’s North American marketing partner since 1956 and Enza’s parent company, Turners & Growers, holds a 15 per cent share in The Oppenheimer Group’s US entities.
Jeff Wesley, managing director of Tuners and Growers, said: “There are benefits in someone with an intimate knowledge of Enza and the New Zealand apple industry at the top of the Oppenheimer business. As Enza grows, I can see this strengthening the partnership between the two organisations and Enza’s presence in North America.”
