Apr 27, 2017

Okanagan Specialty Fruits adds sales manager

In preparation for the fall 2017 commercial launch of nonbrowning Arctic apples, Okanagan Specialty Fruits (OSF) has added Jeanette De-Coninck-Hertzler as sales manager, and Denise Everett as communications specialist to the OSF team.

“With the commercial launch of nonbrowning Arctic apples coming this fall, it is the perfect time to add highly-skilled individuals to our hard-working, innovative team,” said OSF President Neal Carter, who projects OSF’s team will continue to rapidly grow over the coming years.

Jeanette De-Coninck-Hertzler, who started with OSF on April 3, brings to OSF over 30 years of produce sales experience. After obtaining a Bachelor of Science, with a major in agricultural business management, from California Polytechnic State University, De-Coninck-Hertzler began her career as a sales representative with Frieda’s in 1985. she worked at Frieda’s for nearly twenty years before joining MCL Distributing, since re-named to 4Earth Farms, as a senior account manager.

De-Coninck-Hertzler has since worked in various roles with Shamrock Foods Company, Greengate Fresh and Index Fresh. As sales manager, she will serve as OSF’s sales contact for Arctic apples, which are being launched this fall in select U.S. retail locations as fresh, preservative free Arctic Golden slices.

Denise Everett will join the company on May 8 as the team’s communications specialist. Everett will be leading the company’s media relations, serving as OSF’s primary contact for interviews and executing on the company’s social media strategy. Everett has over fifteen years of experience as a communications professional, and began her career in the journalism sector in British Columbia, Canada.

Also in May, OSF will welcome three new members to the research and development team, who will be working to improve additional apple varieties, as well as other tree fruits. Additionally, Jenavive Holmes joined OSF on March 27 as an administrative specialist.

OSF is also implementing role changes of current team members to further boost the scope of the team’s activities, according to the company. Joel Brooks has transitioned from brand manager to brand marketing manager, and Jessica Brady has transitioned from marketing & communications specialist to stakeholder outreach and education. In their new positions, Brooks will take a lead role in OSF’s branding, marketing and communications activities, and Brady will focus on outreach and relationship development with key influencer groups and organizations.