Ralf Horstgen

Ralf Hörstgen, the highly experienced former Chiquita and Fyffes executive, has left his position as sales manager at Cobana Fruchtring to take up the role of Director Key Account Management at Univeg.

Mr Hörstgen, who joined Hamburg-based Cobana in January this year, will report to Francis Kint, chief executive officer of Univeg's fruit and vegetable business unit.

'We are glad that Ralf accepted to fill this important position,' said Mr Kint. 'He has a wealth of experience in key account management, business development and marketing in the fresh produce industry. He will help us to develop the tremendous potential of Univeg by linking our capabilities with the needs of our customers.'

Mr Hörstgen said that he was 'delighted' to have joined Univeg, highlighting the potential of the group in the areas of own production and sourcing on one side, and the areas of distribution, marketing and services on the other.

'My first focus will be on the German market where I will further coordinate the businesses done by the various Univeg units with existing and new potential customers,' he added.