CASTROVILLE, Calif. – (October 2, 2009) – Joe Pezzini, chief operating officer Ocean Mist Farms, has been elected to the Produce Marketing Association board of directors.  The announcement was made at the organization’s international convention and exposition in Anaheim, Calif., yesterday.  

The PMA board serves as the association’s governing body and directs the association in developing valued services events, and products for its 2,100 members in nearly 50 countries worldwide. Election to the PMA board is considered one of the most prestigious positions in the produce industry. Directors are drawn from a wide variety of member companies ranging from supermarket retailers to growers and from restaurant chains to exporters.

The Produce Marketing Association, founded in 1949, is a not-for-profit global trade association serving members who market fresh fruits, vegetables and related products worldwide. Its members are involved in the production, distribution, retail and foodservice sectors of the industry. The association’s core purpose is to sustain and enhance an environment that advances the marketing of produce and related products and services.

PMA’s board of directors is elected each October. Directors are drawn from the membership and serve in a voluntary capacity without remuneration. They typically serve for terms of up to three years.

“With the diverse membership PMA serves, we need expertise from leaders who both represent and understand the changing dynamics of the produce industry,” said Bryan Silbermann, PMA president. “

Pezzini, who was also named The Packer’s Produce Man of the Year in May 2007, said “I am honored to be selected to serve as a PMA director.”