Editor’s note: The following profile is from the 2025 Packer 25, our annual tribute to 25 leaders, innovators and agents of change across the fresh produce supply chain. (You can view all honorees here.) This feature has been edited for length and clarity.
Rannel Santiago — Director of produce, Sysco
For Rannel Santiago, the people are the best part of her job.
“The individuals I’ve met throughout this industry are truly some of the most remarkable I’ve ever known,” she says. “Their passion, resilience, and dedication have made all the hard work not only worthwhile but deeply rewarding.”
She calls the industry one where not only does tradition meet innovation, but where the personal relationship really matters. Those who nominated her say she goes above and beyond, always making time for clients, stakeholders and others in the industry.
What drew you to working in California’s produce world and kept you there ever since?
Growing up in the Salinas Valley, the produce industry was always part of my environment; it surrounded me, shaped my community and sparked my curiosity from a young age. I’ve always had a deep passion for food, so being able to combine that with the agricultural heritage of my hometown made pursuing a career in California’s produce world feel like a natural path.
What’s kept me here is the sense of purpose and connection. This industry is dynamic, collaborative and deeply rooted in feeding people — something I find incredibly meaningful. Every season brings new challenges and opportunities, and being part of that cycle continues to inspire me.
All I’ve heard about you is praise for how, despite being a leader at such a large company as Sysco, you always make time for people. What advice do you have for building relationships like that?
Relationships are at the heart of success, whether in business or in life. I’ve always believed that making time for people isn’t just the right thing to do; it’s the most impactful. Everyone brings a unique perspective shaped by their experiences, and I’ve found that even a brief conversation can offer valuable insight.
In a fast-paced environment like Sysco, it’s easy to get caught up in the scale and complexity of the work, but I’ve learned that collaboration — taking the time to understand what others bring to the table — makes us all better. It builds trust, drives innovation and creates a culture where people feel seen and valued.
My advice? Be curious, be present,and never underestimate the power of listening. Relationships aren’t built in a day, but they’re strengthened every time you show up with intention and respect.
How has the pace of change in technology impacted Sysco in your experience? Where do you see it going in the near future?
Technology is evolving faster than anyone anticipated, and it’s reshaping the way we operate at every level. At Sysco, we’ve embraced this pace of change by leaning into innovation and using it to unlock efficiencies we never thought possible before.
Looking ahead, I see technology continuing to drive transformation in areas like predictive analytics, automation and sustainability. The key is staying agile and open to change, because the companies that adapt fastest will be the ones that lead the future of foodservice.
What have you read, seen, or heard lately — either work-related or not — that has really stuck with you that you’d recommend?
One thing that’s really stuck with me lately is a quote I came across: “Efficiency is doing things right; effectiveness is doing the right things.” It’s a simple idea, but it’s made me reflect on how we approach decision-making and leadership, especially in a fast-moving industry like produce.
Whether it’s a quote, a podcast or a quick conversation with someone in the field, I’m always looking for those moments that shift perspective. That’s what I’d recommend: Stay curious and keep seeking out ideas that challenge the way you think.
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