Heritage Grocers Group promoted Justin Besyk to the position of interim vice president of grocery. Reporting directly to Vince Gambino, merchandising group vice president for Heritage Grocers, Besyk will lead grocery merchandising efforts across all of its banners, leveraging data-driven insights to optimize category strategies and promotional planning that deliver a value-driven and customer focused shopping experience. “Justin’s professional journey is a remarkable example of dedication, hard work and growth,” Gambino said. “With Justin’s deep expertise in the grocery industry alongside his

The Fresh Produce & Floral Council honored three standout leaders at its annual awards ceremony, spotlighting individuals whose careers have shaped and strengthened the produce and floral industries. Andrew Bivens, president and CEO of Westlake Produce Co., received the Norman H. (Buz) Bolstad Legacy Award, the council’s highest recognition for distinguished leadership and long-standing commitment to its mission. Bivens began his career as a produce clerk for Ralphs Grocery Co. in 1990, later becoming a produce manager and category manager before joining Westlake Produce in 2002. Over the

Progressive Produce and Pacific Trellis Fruit have made several changes in executive leadership designed to enhance the ongoing partnership between the two brands, allowing them to work synergistically to best serve both customers and growers around the world. Effective immediately, Eric Coty will join Pacific Trellis Fruit as executive vice president of fruit. With more than 30 years of industry experience, Coty has served in executive roles across sales and marketing, grower relations, quality control and operations. In this newly established position, Coty will spearhead the go-to-market

Fall Creek Farm & Nursery Inc. announced the appointment of Marc de Beer as CEO, effective Oct. 13. De Beer brings two decades of leadership experience in animal nutrition and genetics to Fall Creek. Most recently, he served as president of Aviagen North America, a global leader in poultry genetics, with earlier leadership roles at Elanco Animal Health and DSM Nutritional Products. Originally from South Africa, de Beer earned bachelor's and master's degrees in animal science from the University of Stellenbosch, and a Ph.D. in poultry science from the University of Arkansas. He is recognized

Market Basket has named Donald T. Mulligan, its longtime chief financial officer, as interim CEO following last week's firing of then-CEO Arthur T. Demoulas. Mulligan has worked for the retailer for the past 42 years. “Don Mulligan is the voice of consistency at Market Basket, one that our associates and customers can count on to proudly continue the same thriving culture and the ‘More For Your Dollar’ shopping experience," said Board Chair Jay K. Hachigian. "The board has worked closely with Mr. Mulligan and has come to appreciate his exceptional business acumen, the respect and admiration

Top execs driving retail innovation — the winners of International Fresh Produce Association’s Retail Merchant Innovation Award — will be recognized at the Retail Awards Reception Oct. 17 at the Global Produce & Floral Show in Anaheim, CA. “This year’s winners exemplify how innovation and passion can transform the retail experience and inspire consumers to choose more fresh produce,” said Joe Watson, IFPA vice president of retail, foodservice and wholesale. “Their leadership is not only elevating their companies but also moving the entire industry forward.” IFPA awarded winners in five store