Dutch fresh produce company Zon Fruit & Vegetables is searching for a new managing director after the unexpected departure of present incumbent Gerjo Scheringa, who has decided to pursue a new career challenge.
Scheringa joined Zon in June 2012 and, during the past two years, was instrumental in leading a major reorganisation of the group – nicknamed the House in Order plan – followed by the adoption of a new strategy centred around a smaller, slimmer and more market-focused operation.
Those efforts apparently contributed to Zon's recently announced return to profitability, with the company posting a €1.3m profit for 2013 compared with a loss of €2.4m in the previous year.
'The management and supervisory board regret his departure, but respect Gerjo Scheringa's motives, namely a combination of a new challenge in his career and personal circumstances,' commented Zon chairman Ton Reijnders.
'Gerjo Scheringa steered our company through a difficult time and allowed the organisation to regain its strength, for which we are particularly grateful to him.'
Reijnders added: 'Although his departure is unexpected, the proposed major changes are almost complete however, as shown by the results from 2013. After a hectic few years, as Zon we are ready for the next phase and look to the future with confidence.'
Having established separate business units for tomatoes, peppers and vegetables and soft fruit, Zon's focus is expected to continue a recent shift towards more market-driven supply compared with its traditional supply-driven model.
