James Benson has joined Fresno, Calif.-based Bari Produce as vice president of sales and marketing.
Benson brings nearly 30 years of experience in the produce industry, most notably in the table grape and citrus categories. The company says he is an esteemed colleague and leader in the produce industry, having served positions on the California Table Grape Commission, the California Fresh Fruit Association and the Fruit and Vegetable Industry Advisory Committee to the USDA.
After graduating from the University of Arkansas, Benson started his produce career with Eden Prairie, Minn.-based C.H. Robinson Worldwide, initially serving as a commodity manager and later as an account manager. He joins Bari Produce after 22 years with a large central California grape shipper, where he held multiple positions, most recently national sales director.
“James is a proven sales leader in the produce industry with a track record of building strong and lasting relationships, and we are excited for him to join Bari Produce,” says Justin Bedwell, president of Bari Produce. “His market knowledge and strong relationships across the industry will help us to continue to grow our produce business.”
Bari Produce is a central California-based grower, shipper and marketer of table grapes, stone fruits and citrus with deep farming roots in the San Joaquin Valley.
