Midwest Fresh produce wholesaler and distributor DNO Produce recently promoted Marissa Dake to vice president of brand and people, joining the executive leadership team the first to fill newly created role.
“Since joining our team, Marissa has demonstrated ownership and drive for the success of the company, our partners in school nutrition, and our stakeholders,” Alex DiNovo, president and chief operating officer of DNO Produce, said in a news release. “Her perspective, passion, and ability to build consensus have played a key role in our company’s direction and growth. I am confident she will make a significant impact on our growing company in her new role.”
Dake will assume responsibilities for the human capital strategy at DNO Produce and subsidiaries, including duties such as recruitment and talent development and retention. Dake will continue leading DNO Produce’s communications and marketing strategy and engagement, according to the release.
“It is a privilege to work with a stellar team that is laser-focused on ensuring all children, regardless of income or zip code, have access to fresh produce,” Dake said in the release. “Having a robust workforce and strong brand identity will be key to furthering our mission and transforming how kids eat fruits and veggies. I am honored and energized by the opportunity to serve on the DNO Produce leadership team.”
Dake joined DNO Produce in November 2021 and has garnered attention for her knowledge and passion in child nutrition and the produce industry, presenting at the IFPA’s Washington Conference and Global Produce & Floral Show, along with The Center for Innovative Food Technologies and the School Nutrition Association of Michigan’s Annual Conference, according to the release.
Prior to her time at DNO, Dake served as director of operation Food Secure, a hunger relief initiative sourced by the USDA Coronavirus Food Assistance Program. Dake began her career in Washington, D.C., working in food and agriculture policy on and off Capitol Hill.
