CASTROVILLE, Calif. (Oct. 5, 2015) – The Ocean Mist Farms Board of Directors named Joe Pezzini as the company’s successor to current President and CEO Ed Boutonnet; the transition in leadership will occur over the next 12 months.
Joe joined Ocean Mist Farms in June of 1983. In 2001, Joe was promoted to Vice President of Operations where he was responsible for cooling operations, food safety, research and development, quality assurance, human resources and strategic planning. In addition to these responsibilities, Joe accepted the position of Chief Operating Officer at Ocean Mist in February of 2009, a position he took very seriously and proudly served.
“After a careful process, we are delighted to select Joe as our new President and CEO,” Boutonnet said. “His wide range of expertise and skills, including his previous experience with Ocean Mist Farms, will serve him extremely well in his new position.”
Joe Pezzini said, “I’m honored by the confidence expressed in me by the Ocean Mist Farms board. I will work hard as we embark upon the next chapter in the company’s history. Working with the talented professionals on the Board, the Senior Management Team and our dedicated employees, I anticipate an exciting and successful future.”
Joe succeeds Boutonnet who joined Ocean Mist Farms in 1970 and became President and CEO in 1990. Under his leadership, the company became the largest grower/shipper of fresh artichokes in North America. Boutonnet will remain as Chairman of the Board and will participate in special assignments, projects and other operations of the corporation.
Boutonnet said, “I've been privileged to lead one of the greatest produce companies in the country. After almost five decades with the company and 25 years as CEO, it's time to transfer Ocean Mist Farms’ helm to a new generation of leadership. While I will continue a very active role at the company, I enthusiastically welcome Joe as our new leader. I am confident in his abilities and excited for the future of Ocean Mist Farms. I look forward to working with Joe and the board during the transition period, and to being an advisor to management in the years ahead."
Hugo Tottino, owner/partner of Ocean Mist Farms said, "Ed is a very strong, dedicated, and honest leader who encouraged our employees to look ahead to the future. He was instrumental in working with management to position our company for long-term success. We are grateful for his innumerable contributions to the company and we thank him for his distinguished tenure as President and CEO over the last 25 years."
