FPAA to host women in produce leadership session at SWIPE 2023  

The Fresh Produce Association of the Americas says it will host a “Woman Leaders in the Produce Industry” educational speaker session at the Southwest International Produce Expo, to be held at the Loews Ventana Canyon Resort in Tucson, Ariz., Nov. 2-4.

Attendees will gain insights from trailblazing women who have carved a niche for themselves in a competitive industry, according to a news release. 

Panelists include:

• Katie Calligaro, director of marketing and communications at the International Fresh Produce Association, who will take attendees on a deep dive into the world of marketing and communication strategies within the fresh produce realm.
• Dania Guzman, senior manager sourcing produce at Walmart Mexico, who will share perspective on overseeing produce sourcing strategies for the retail giant.
• Julie Olivarria, vice president of produce at Sysco, who will discuss her role at the helm of a global leader in selling, marketing and distributing food products. 
• Caitlin Tierney, senior director of produce at Sprouts Farmers Market, who will speak to the nuances and challenges of produce management for a leading supermarket chain. 
• Raquel Espinoza, director of sales and marketing at Produce House and FPAA chair-elect, will serve as the moderator.

“This session represents a unique opportunity to learn from leading women in the industry,” Espinoza said in the release. “Their stories, experiences and insights will no doubt inspire and inform those who are passionate about the world of produce.”

Related: FPAA invites industry membership from three states as its preps for new expo