Sunkist Growers Inc. has appointed Anuj Girdhar as chief financial officer.
Girdhar brings more than 20 years of financial leadership experience within the agriculture and beverage industries, with a strong background in strategic planning, operational finance and business growth. In his role at Sunkist, he will oversee the company’s finance, accounting, strategy and innovation and information technology teams, partnering closely with leadership across the organization to support continued operational and strategic growth.
Most recently, Girdhar served as CFO for O’Neill Vintners & Distillers, where he led financial planning, reporting and operational finance initiatives in a growth-focused environment. Prior to that, he held leadership roles at E. & J. Gallo Winery, including director of financial planning and analysis.
“Anuj brings extensive financial and operational leadership experience, along with a strong understanding of agriculture-focused businesses,” says Jim Phillips, president and CEO of Sunkist Growers. “His strategic mindset, collaborative approach and industry background make him a strong addition to our leadership team as we continue positioning the cooperative for long-term success.”
As CFO, Girdhar will oversee financial operations and strategic planning initiatives across Sunkist Growers and Fruit Growers Supply Co. organizations, supporting continued alignment, operational growth and long-term strategic objectives. The company says his appointment marks another step in the continued evolution of the shared management structure between Sunkist and FGS, supporting a long-term strategy centered on operational alignment, innovation and sustainable growth.
“I’m honored to join Sunkist and be part of such a respected and grower-focused organization,” Girdhar says. “Having grown up with the Sunkist brand, I’ve long admired the company’s heritage and reputation. I’m excited to work alongside the team to support the cooperative’s future growth and continued success.”
