JOH Names Key Leadership Shifts in North Central Produce Division

JOH has promoted Brian LaMarche to vice president of produce for its North Central region. Since joining JOH in early 2025, LaMarche has quickly made a meaningful impact, helping strengthen its growing presence in produce across the North Central market, the company says.

LaMarche has more than 25 years of experience in the produce industry. He began his career as a produce manager with a leading regional grocery wholesaler and later served as a produce/floral specialist and category manager for a prominent Midwest retailer, where he consistently drove strong results across sales, distribution, expense control and profitability.

Prior to joining JOH, LaMarche held leadership roles in sales and business development at a national sales and marketing agency.

“Brian has been a tremendous addition to our North Central team,” says Brian Maguire, JOH executive vice president of produce. “In a short time, he has built strong relationships, delivered results and helped elevate our capabilities across the region. We’re excited to see him step into this leadership role.”

LaMarche lives in Minnesota with his wife, Lisa, and their four children.

(Photo courtesy of JOH)

JOH Welcomes Pat McErlean

Industry veteran Pat McErlean has joined JOH team as produce customer manager, stepping into the role with over 12 years of industry experience. He began his career in retail and event marketing before transitioning into beverage sales, where he gained strong experience managing retail programming and supporting national and regional grocery accounts across the Midwest.

Throughout his career, McErlean has held a variety of sales and customer development roles, helping brands grow their business and strengthen retailer partnerships across the North Central market. Most recently, he managed key customer relationships and supported a broad portfolio of brands. Known for his relationship-driven approach and strong understanding of the retail landscape, McErlean will be a great addition to JOH produce team, the company says.

“We are excited to welcome Pat to JOH family,” says Maguire. “Pat brings great experience, strong relationships and a real passion for the business. We’re excited to have him join our produce team and work alongside our clients and customers throughout the North Central region.”

McErlean resides in New Lenox, Ill., with his wife, Meghan, their two children, Maeve and Declan, and their dog, Penny.