The Produce Marketing Association (PMA) has announced that it has appointed Marianne van der Laarse as its country representative in South Africa, effective 1 June, reflecting the group's growing membership base in the country.
In her role, Ms van der Laarse will assist with the development and implementation of a multi-year strategic plan for member engagement in the country, which boasts a dynamic and diverse fresh produce industry.
'Marianne has a wealth of industry knowledge and contacts in South Africa and indeed throughout the region. She will hit the ground running and quickly raise the profile of PMA in the country,' said Richard Owen, PMA director of global business development. 'She will be an important link in generating two-way value for our members in South Africa and around the world.'
Ms van der Laarse will advise the association in ways to create greater value for members by providing feedback on the needs of the South African industry, and she will also serve as a media spokesman for local press while working with PMA FIT in the country.
'The position with PMA dovetails precisely with my career, and I can already see the value I can provide,' said Ms van der Laarse. 'I'm thrilled that the association saw the potential of this market, and I'm honoured that I was chosen to lead the charge.'
