Two major agricultural commodities groups have moved on from their leaders over the past few weeks.
Both the California Fresh Fruit Association (CFFA) and California Citrus Mutual (CCM) are on the hunt for new CEOs.
The big picture: Multiple sources told The Sun that CFFA has parted ways with Daniel Hartwig and CCM has separated from Casey Creamer.
- CFFA declined to comment to The Sun, while CCM confirmed that Creamer is no longer with the organization.
- Both organizations have removed Hartwig and Creamer from their respective websites.
Flashback: Hartwig was named as the President and CEO of CFFA in 2023, succeeding Ian LeMay at the time.
- Hartwig had spent most of the previous decade working for Woolf Enterprises, which followed six years with the Nisei Farmers League.
- Creamer spent six years leading California Citrus Mutual, following the 37-year tenure of Joel Nelsen.
- Creamer previously served as the organization’s Executive Vice President.
What they’re saying: CCM Board Chair Julia Inestroza said in a statement to the organization’s members that CCM and Creamer parted ways on Feb. 11.
- “We appreciate his service to our industry and wish him the best in his future endeavors,” Inestroza said. “California Citrus Mutual remains committed to its mission of representing the California citrus industry. Our day-to-day operations will continue under the direction of our experienced staff, and the Board has begun the process of identifying CCM’s next leader.
- Inestroza said the board will keep members informed during the search for a new CEO and asked members to direct any questions they have to her.
