The 2022 Packer 25 is our annual tribute to 25 leaders, innovators and agents of change across the fresh produce supply chain. Each year, The Packer invites the produce industry to nominate distinguished veterans, leaders and rising stars of the fresh produce industry. As always, our editorial team was energized and awed by the talented pool of nominees this year. Now in its 18th year, The Packer is once again spotlighting 25 dynamic and inspiring people who are moving the produce industry forward.
The following has been edited for length and clarity.
Jay Alley is the co-owner and vice president of sales for Fresh Innovations LLC, home of Yo Quiero Brands, Rhome, Texas.
How did you get your start in the produce industry?
Alley: I got my start in produce in 1978 as a produce clerk with a major retailer. I worked my way from a produce clerk to produce manager and then to produce buyer. By 1989 I was the procurement manager for produce buying for seven states.
How would you describe your current role?
I was lucky to transition from the buying side to the sales side when Don Bowden, our founder, who recently passed away, gave me that opportunity in 2002, and an ownership stake a few years later. Don was the ultimate entrepreneur and innovator. My current role is that of co-owner and vice president of sales for Fresh Innovations LLC.
What do you hope to accomplish/contribute through that role?
My vision for the company is to continue Don’s legacy of innovation and that of creating the ultimate dip destination with passion. We partner with retailers to create that dip destination. We currently offer avocado, guacamole, salsa, queso, avocado-forward cream cheese dips, elotes (Mexican street corn), and escabeche (Mexican pickled vegetables), with more Items coming soon. We offer these in both branded and in our newest fresh cut container that lets retailers blend [the items] into their fresh cut fruit and vegetable sets.
What professional accomplishment are you most proud of?
There are several from having write-ups in annual stockholders reports with the first company, to serving on many industry volunteer boards, but I would say the proudest would be, being part of a company and being involved and watching it grow from $10 million in sales to over $300 million, selling that company, and getting together with the same team to do it all over again, only better.
What does leadership mean to you?
I really learned from Don that leadership is providing inspiration and vision, then developing and allowing others to achieve it. Problems are just opportunities when you bring the right people together.
