Duda Farm Fresh Foods says Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing Rick Alcocer is heading into retirement.
After graduating from the University of Southern California in 1980, Alcocer began his career in the fresh produce industry as a financial analyst with Dole Fresh Vegetables (known then as Bud Antle Inc.), according to a news release.
After eight years at Dole, Alcocer transitioned to Tanimura & Antle, where he spent nearly 15 years. He held various roles such as account executive, general sales manager and, ultimately, director of retail sales.
Alcocer joined Duda Farm Fresh Foods in 2003 as director of fresh sales for the Oviedo, Fla.-based grower of fresh celery, radishes and corn.
During his four-decade career, Alcocer has witnessed numerous industry shifts, technological advancements and evolving consumer preferences, navigating each change and forging enduring relationships within the industry, the release said. Duda Farm Fresh Foods said his ability to lead and work with others was demonstrated in his appointment as the first American chair of the Canadian Produce Marketing Association (2017-2018), where he had been a board member for over 25 years.
“As Rick embarks on his retirement, I express our deepest appreciation for his unwavering commitment to the industry and over two decades of service at Duda Farm Fresh Foods,” Mark Bassetti, president of Duda Farm Fresh Foods, said in the release. “He has made an undeniable impact on both Duda and the produce industry at large. I wish him a future filled with well-earned rest and enjoyment.”
