Gold Bell — part of the Arrowfarms family of companies — says co-founders Joanne Cipriano Dolan and Maria Cipriano Maggio have stepped down after 45 years of dedicated leadership and innovation. The pair will continue as owners and principals, leaving the company still family- and women-owned, according to the Chelsea, Mass.-based company.
In conjunction with this transition, Gold Bell also announced a new leadership team, headed by incoming CEO Jeff Glennon.
“I’m both honored and excited to lead Gold Bell into its next chapter, building on the strong foundation created by Joanne and Maria,” Glennon said in a news release. “After serving as [chief operating officer] for the last 2.5 years, it is a privilege to be in an expanded role and I look forward to working closely with the team to drive innovation and growth.”
Alongside Glennon, the new leadership team includes Marissa Dolan Bleiler and Liz Maggio, both the next generation in the family-founded and -operated business.
Joanne Cipriano Dolan and Maria Cipriano Maggio expressed their confidence and optimism at the transition.
“The appointment of the new leadership team marks an exciting new chapter for our company, and we are eager to see what they can accomplish together,” co-founder Dolan said.
An expanding sales team and infrastructure
As part of an ongoing growth strategy, Gold Bell says it is expanding its sales team to strengthen its market presence. The expansion will provide more services for current customers, including additional freight capabilities and an expanded network of grower partners, according to the company. The move includes two new hires, Edie Rose and Melissa Anderson.
Rose brings extensive industry experience, specifically in organics, according to the company. Anderson will provide additional reach, being strategically located within the heart of Vidalia, Ga., and having the ability to visit farms and provide on-the-ground, real-time crop updates.
The company also says it has expanded its warehouse network throughout the East Coast. Extensive private-label and on-site packaging capabilities round out the company’s offerings.
“Gold Bell is positioned for the future with our strong leadership team combined with our expanded sales team,” Bleiler said. “Our focus remains on delivering outstanding products and services while fostering lasting relationships with our customers.”
