Lesley Sykes named executive vice president of The Sykes Co.

Rio Rico, Ariz.-based The Sykes Company, announced today that it has selected Lesley Sykes — daughter of company founder and president Bill Sykes — as executive vice president.

In her new role, Sykes is responsible for identifying growth opportunities for the company, according to a news release.

The company said she started with the company earlier this year, ahead of the start of the 2018-19 season that began in October.

Sykes is helping to introduce the company’s first organics line, which will debut later in November, according to the release.

Sykes has had more than a decade of experience in fresh produce, including stints at Plainville, Mass.-based Red Tomato, SCS Global Services in Emeryville, Calif., and other stops.

“Lesley brings us the know-how to address the rapidly changing industry and find innovative ways to meet the needs of our customers and grower-partners,” Bill Sykes said in the release. “Her passion for fresh produce and unique background in market differentiation make her a perfect fit for us.”