Salinas, Calif.-based sustainability firm Measure to Improve has hired Alexandra Colfer as communications and business development director, while Kubir Sandhu has joined as sustainability program technician.
The hires will enhance MTI’s capacity to support the fresh produce industry and advance sustainable agricultural practices, according to a news release.
Colfer brings agricultural sustainability expertise, strategic communications and stakeholder engagement experience. Colfer’s deep-rooted connection to land and water stewardship stems from her family’s dedication to environmental conservation, the release said. She holds a bachelor’s degree in English literature and a master’s degree in tropical plant and soil sciences from the University of Hawaii at Manoa.
“We always tell our clients to communicate their successes, and we need to do the same,” Nikki Cossio, CEO and founder of MTI, said in the release. “Alexandra’s technical and creative communications knowledge will not only help MTI communicate its own success but also improve client communications and experiences.”
Colfer said she looks forward to expanding MTI’s reach.
“Agriculture is evolving, and sustainability is essential to business success and human health,” Colfer said. “MTI has the tools and expertise to guide businesses through this important transition, and I look forward to advancing and implementing practical solutions that create lasting value.”
With a master’s degree in agronomy from Chico State, Sandhu combines his strong data analysis capabilities with extensive field experience in perennial crops, including walnuts, almonds and olives, the release said.
“Joining MTI is an opportunity to apply my hands-on agricultural experience with cutting-edge sustainability practices,” Sandhu said. “I’m excited to help clients implement practical, science-based methodologies and solutions centered around growers and triple-bottom-line principles.”
Sandhu’s research and analytical-driven insights and hands-on in-the-field experience are skills that make him a valuable addition to the firm, Cossio said.
“These strategic appointments reflect MTI’s commitment to collaboration and empowering the industry to proactively navigate evolving market expectations, increasing regulatory requirements, and the growing pressures of climate change,” Cossio said.
