John Anderson is the president, chairman and CEO of The Oppenheimer Group, where he has worked for 36 years at every level of the organization from the ground up to his current role, which he has held since 1993. John is currently the Chair of the PMA Foundation for Industry Talent Board of Directors.

 

 

 

Fresh: Give us a brief description of your company.

JA: The Oppenheimer Group has 153 years of experience in the fresh produce industry. Based in Vancouver, B.C., we partner with the world's best growers to deliver a year-round supply of fresh fruits and vegetables to retail, wholesale and foodservice customers across North America. We currently have 11 offices spread across the U.S. and Canada, as well as an office in Santiago, Chile. Our brand promise, "expect the world from us", encompasses the spirit and dedication of our people, who have kept Oppenheimer growing since 1858.

Fresh: Can you describe your company's products and services a little further?

JA: We are a solutions-oriented marketer with a specific focus on year-round supplies of premium quality fresh produce. Our key categories include apples and pears, stone fruit, grapes, kiwifruit, citrus, mangoes, pineapple, berries, avocados and greenhouse vegetables.

Fresh: How has your company evolved through the years to meet changing demands?

JA: Our founders kept their eyes on the horizon and invested heavily in building relationships and fostering innovation. In some ways, our core principles are the same now. We deliver on our promises today and focus on the future by seeking out new opportunities for tomorrow, whether that's forging a new partnership or investing in traceability and food safety.

Fresh: What role has human capital played in getting your company where it is today?

JA: The only role, really. We would not still be in business after 153 years without it. Oppenheimer is known for our commitment to service and that is entirely dependent on the people who work for us. Their passion for the industry and for our company is what drives our business forward and makes this a place where people stay. Culture is very important to us and we take pride in being the best at what we do.

Fresh: How has your company responded to the downswing in the economy from a talent perspective?

JA: It's been business as usual. We have always planned carefully when increasing the number of employees we hire in any given year and spend considerable time and effort in hiring the brightest and best talent available for any vacancy.

Fresh: What role has your staff played in helping your company deal with this economy?

JA: Our staff members are well aware of the difficulties in the marketplace due to the various factors. They have responded by looking at innovative ways to cut costs and increase revenue whenever possible.

Fresh: How do you feel the PMA Foundation for Industry Talent's mission to attract, develop and retain talent for the produce industry has helped the industry in these tough economic times?

JA: The PMA Foundation's efforts are significant drivers in encouraging young talent to our industry.

Fresh: How do you feel that your company's contribution to PMA's Foundation for Industry Talent will help your company?

JA: Our contribution to the Foundation is meaningful because we feel it is an investment in our future. We need the right people on our team to assure that we can optimize future opportunities. If the Foundation is fiscally robust and able to achieve its strategies, we are confident that our investment will be rewarded exponentially with a pool of well-prepared, bright individuals to bring into our company when the time is right.

Fresh: Are you planning on sending anyone from your staff to the new Emerging Leaders program this summer? Why?

JA: Yes. We plan to send two very talented staff members to participate in the program, one from marketing, and the other from category management/sales. The curriculum offers insight and perspective that will help them hone their leadership skills and prepare for new challenges and opportunities.

Fresh: Did you or someone from your staff attend the 2011 Leadership Symposium? If so, how will it benefit your company?

JA: Yes, I attended it for the first time. I felt the program was solid, and enjoyed the networking opportunities. We also brought along one of our grower partners as a guest. We experienced the benefit of listening to the speakers together and discussing the relevance of their ideas to our approach to the business.