Challenge: As General Manager of Emerging Business, the mandate was to build new growth beyond the core banana and salad businesses.

The Work: New product development for avocado items, fruit smoothies, and foodservice products, using the Stage-Gate innovation process to move ideas from concept to market with discipline — along with licensing and brand-placement partnerships.

Results: Launched Chiquita Smoothies with superior flavor, based on new processing technology. The product was distributed across the US in refrigerated bottles and also as pouches in Oscar Mayer Lunchables meal kits. Secured brand exposure through a Despicable Me (Minions) movie tie-in and a licensing partnership with McDonald's — extending Chiquita's presence well beyond the produce aisle.