Two organizations in the mango and avocado industries recently elected new directors. The National Mango Board (NMB) appointed Ramon Ojeda as executive director, while the Colombia Avocado Board (CAB) appointed Manuel Michel as executive director.
Ramon Ojeda was Appointed as New Executive Director for National Mango Board
The National Mango Board (NMB) announced the appointment of Ramon Ojeda as its new executive director.
This transition occurred nine years after Manuel Michel accepted his position to lead the organization.
Ojeda has served the NMB in Orlando, FL, for nearly three years as the operations director, overseeing the financial, operational, and administrative functions.
He has been crucial to organizing the annual board meetings and key internal training opportunities to help strengthen the organization.
During his 30-year career, Ojeda has developed a unique background in leadership and overseeing strategic organizations.
His previous experience and his passion for the mango industry will serve him well as the new executive director.
“Serving the mango industry in the lead role as NMB’s executive director is an incredible opportunity and a true honor for me,” said Ramon Ojeda.
“I am eager to dive in and committed to working with our members and the industry to unleash the next level of success in mango consumption in the U.S.”
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Colombia Avocados Hires Manuel Michel as New Executive Director
La Junta Directiva de Colombia Avocado (CAB) contrató al líder de la industria Manuel Michel como su nuevo director ejecutivo.
The Colombia Avocado Board (CAB) is excited to announce the hiring of industry leader Manuel Michel as their new executive director.
Michel assumed the role on July 17 and took the reins from William Watson, who has been acting director and was instrumental in establishing the organization.
Most recently, Michel served as executive director of the National Mango Board, where he has helped guide growth since 2014. During his tenure, he has administered a national research and promotion program and increased the volume, awareness, and consumption of fresh mangos in the United States.
“This is an exciting time to join the Colombia Avocado Board”, said Michel.
“I have an unwavering dedication to enhance lives through agriculture development and trade, and my commitment is rooted in the profound impact ag development can have on the livelihood of farmers, local communities, and consumers, and I see that reality at work in Colombia and I am eager to highlight the benefits and advantages of Colombian avocados and be a champion for the Board’s mission and vision” he concluded.
About Avocado Industry
Colombian avocado production has grown immensely over the last two years with orchard numbers more than tripling, resulting in the production of nearly 25 million pounds, during the 2023 season. The warm climate and fertile soils make Colombia a year-round global Hass avocado producer and exporter with an increasing global sales footprint.
Michel comes to CAB with a long history in agriculture, organizational administration, and food safety dating back over 25 years, including a bachelor’s degree in agriculture from Oregon State University and a Doctor of Jurisprudence from Texas Tech University along with a license from the State Bar of Texas.
Joining the conversation, Ricardo Uribe, CAB chairman, remarked, “We’re thrilled to have Manuel and his special skill set, join CAB. We needed to bring the right person into this role, and we appreciate William supporting us in our operational startup until we could. It’s clear that Manuel understands this opportunity with his experience growing new organizations and his international experience as we grow Colombian avocado exports to the U.S.,” Uribe said.