Canadian fresh produce import giant the Oppenheimer Company has promoted Walt Breeden to the position of director of sales for Canada, and David Cheung to Breeden’s previous position of sales manager at the group’s Vancouver office.
Breeden brings 25 years of experience in produce to his role after joining Oppenheimer began in 1987 to sell California-grown produce throughout Western Canada, according to a press release from the group.
In 1997 Breeden was promoted to sales manager, and in 2001 he led the opening of the company’s Calgary, Alberta, office.
In his new position, Breeden will continue to strategically oversee the efforts of Oppenheimer’s Western Canadian sales team while aiming to increase sales in Eastern Canada, the company said.
“As our business expands eastward, it’s imperative that we leverage the consumer behavior and buying patterns in those regions with Oppenheimer products,” said Breeden.
“We offer a wide range of items that are suitable for the eastern market, like our new apple varieties.”
Cheung, meanwhile, will be responsible for leading the local sales team while driving the company’s Western Canadian sales initiatives.
“David is a team player and a natural leader,” explained Breeden. “His tremendous knowledge of the produce industry combined with an aptitude for customer service makes him an invaluable asset to both our sales team and Oppenheimer.”
Cheung currently sits on the board of directors for the British Columbia Produce Marketing Association (BCPMA).
He was a buyer for the Overwaitea Food Group of Vancouver before joining Oppenheimer as a sales representative in 2006.
