2022 Packer 25 — Brian Klumpp
The 2022 Packer 25 is our annual tribute to 25 leaders, innovators and agents of change across the fresh produce supply chain. Each year, The Packer invites the produce industry to nominate distinguished veterans, leaders and rising stars of the fresh produce industry. As always, our editorial team was energized and awed by the talented pool of nominees this year. Now in its 18th year, The Packer is once again spotlighting 25 dynamic and inspiring people who are moving the produce industry forward.
The following has been edited for length and clarity.
Brian Klumpp, director of marketing and strategic development, North Bay Produce Inc., Traverse City, Mich.
How did you get your start in the produce industry?
Klumpp: I was working for a sister company of North Bay Produce that processes fruits and on occasion, I worked on projects with fresh produce. That exposure to the industry was exciting to me because of the pace and intensity of the business. Then the great culture at North Bay cemented my interest in being part of this full time.
How would you describe your current role?
My responsibilities include leading the company’s marketing efforts as well as exploring new areas and methods of growth for the business.
What do you hope to accomplish/contribute through that role?
There are definitely benchmark goals that we have for the business and I hope that my efforts are helpful in realizing those targets. In the end, my objective is to help build a stronger company that because of work I have been involved in will benefit our shareholders, our employees and our communities both locally and in the produce industry.
What does leadership mean to you?
I believe that good leadership is the positive direction of people in accomplishing objectives while helping to improve everyone’s performance along the way.
Who has been a mentor to you in your career?
My father has been my greatest business mentor. He was this at the beginning of my career and all of the steps along the way. It is hard to beat having great parents and I have been blessed that way.
What's your favorite efficiency hack, or something you do to be more effective at your job?
As a reminder of something I need to do or if a new idea comes to mind, if not at my desk, I regularly send myself emails. From odd hours in the morning to late at night, I fire off these notes.
