Commencing Apple and Pear Australia’s (APAL) Market Access and Export Readiness project which aims to optimise exports, is the appointment of Justin Smith as industry services and export manager.
Smith comes in with over a decade of experience in commercial operations management in both FMCG and retail.
APAL stated that the apple and pear market currently relies on a single domestic market in Australia to absorb increasing product volume, with overall exports declining from above 18 per cent twenty-years ago, to below 3 per cent.
“Justin’s task is to grow awareness of export opportunities, trade and certification requirements, and ultimately help growers’ position themselves – and their product – to take advantage of high potential overseas markets,” said APAL CEO, Phil Turnbull.
Prior to joining APAL, Smith was senior procurement manager for Belamys Organic, Coles, and Murray Goulburn Co-Operative. His responsibilities included leading and executing procurement and operational strategy across strategic categories, including capex, spend, and merchandise.
He will be based in the APAL Melbourne office but expects to spend a significant amount of time on the road working directly with growers and key export stakeholders domestically and overseas.
