Snyder spent almost two decades with the California-based group and is now set to return after four years away

Calavo copyright Toyota Forklift

Image: Toyota Forklift

US company Calavo Growers, a leading supplier of avocados, tomatoes, papayas and guacamole, has recruited former employee James Snyder as its new chief financial officer, effective 2 December.

Snyder worked with the California-based company between 2001 and 2020 as its corporate controller and chief accounting officer, and since April has performed the same roles at Gem-Pack Berries.

Calavo’s current CFO Shawn Munsell will depart on 29 November to pursue a new opportunity, but will continue as a consultant during December to ensure a smooth transition, it said.

“We are excited to welcome James back to Calavo,” said Lee Cole, the group’s president and chief executive officer. “James served the company well for over 18 years, and we are thrilled that he has agreed to return as our CFO to lead the division that he knows so well.”

Cole added: “We thank Shawn for all that he has done for Calavo in his two-and-a-half years here, and we wish him well in his new endeavours.”

Snyder described his return to Calavo as “like a homecoming”, adding: “I built my career at Calavo, and I am eager to help Lee and the team move the company forward as its CFO.”