Bako Sweet says it has promoted Susan Noritake to vice president of sales and marketing.
Noritake, who joined the Bakersfield, Calif.-based Bako Sweet in June 2023 as director of sales, has since been instrumental in leading the company’s sales and marketing efforts, delivering innovative solutions that elevate both the Bako Sweet brand and the sweetpotato category, according to a news release. With 30 years of experience in sales and marketing at companies like Zespri International, Duda Farm Fresh Foods, Mann Packing and Gill’s Onions, Noritake brings a proven track record of building impactful campaigns that drive consumer demand and retailer success, Bako Sweet said.
“I am honored to step into this new role and build on the incredible momentum we’ve achieved over the past year,” Noritake said. “Looking ahead to 2025, I’m eager to implement our fresh strategies that will continue to differentiate Bako Sweet in the market and to deepen partnerships with retailers while driving even greater consumer excitement for our products.”
In the past year, Noritake has spearheaded campaigns positioning sweetpotatoes as a year-round staple, inspiring consumers with Bako Sweet’s mission to “sweeten your every day” and elevating brand visibility at the retail level. Under her leadership, the team continues to grow, and this elevated role will enable her to develop further and expand the brand’s sales and marketing initiatives, the release said.
“Susan has been a driving force behind our growth over the last year, bringing innovative strategies and unmatched expertise to the table,” said Matt McCort, executive vice president for Bako Sweet. “Her leadership and vision are invaluable as we continue to grow and solidify Bako Sweet’s position as the leading brand in the sweetpotato category.”
