Former Chiquita Europe business director Cees Ritmeester has joined the Univeg group as supply chain director Europe.

Univeg has announced the appointment of Ritmeester as its new supply chain director Europe, a position he first took up on 1 March, where he will be responsible for developing the supply chain throughout the Univeg group by streamlining operations and maximising synergies, reports Fruitnet.com.

Ritmeester brings with him 22 years of experience from within the fresh produce industry, joining from Netherlands-based VDV where he operated as director of value-added logistics services, having previously held the role of business director Europe at Chiquita Europe.

"We are glad that Cees accepted to fill in this new position to drive the continuous optimisation of the supply chain, a key success factor in our fresh produce business," said Tom Paemeleire, chief operating officer of Univeg's business unit for fruit amd vegetables.

"I am pleased to join the Univeg group, an industry leader in the fresh produce sector that partners with large retailers to help them manage the important product category of fruit and vegetables," added Ritmeester. “I am glad to learn that supply chain management is high on the radar of Univeg group which will allow us to continuously create value for our customers, build a competitive infrastructure, leverage our worldwide logistics and synchronise supply with demand."