Sep 6, 2018

Riveridge Produce expands finance unit

Sparta, Michigan-based Riveridge Produce Marketing expanded its finance department with the hire of Ed Braunschneider who steps into a newly created Chief Financial Officer role. Additionally, Danny Rock, who began his career in an accounting role with Riveridge, returns after a stint working directly on the farm, cultivating knowledge of its unique fiscal needs.

Braunschneider comes to Riveridge after nearly 15 years with Phillips Healthcare in various business partner roles, most recently as a plant controller. Braunschneider has a deep understanding of business analysis and corporate financial matters, holding a CPA accreditation as well as an MBA with an emphasis in finance. Originally from Grand Rapids and a Michigan State alum, Braunschneider has returned to his roots back home in Michigan.

“Ed brings another level of professionalism to Riveridge with his ability to provide further business insights and analysis to our growers and varying operating units within the company,” said Don Armock, president, Riveridge Produce Marketing. “As Riveridge continues to diversify and grow vertically, Ed’s keen understanding of strategic finance reporting and analysis will be invaluable.”

Rock, a nine-year Riveridge veteran, returns to the accounting team after a few years working directly on the farm, learning the financial and managerial needs of the growing side. As a production manager on the farms, he ran payroll, cost accounting, budgeting and purchasing. This knowledge base will uniquely position him to understand the financial nuances with the packing facilities and farms.

These key additions to the finance team kick off the 2018 harvest and the 29th season for Riveridge Produce Marketing.

Riveridge Produce Marketing is a vertically-integrated apple grower/packer/shipper/marketer headquartered in Sparta, Michigan, a unique growing region in West Michigan due in part to the elevation, proximity to Lake Michigan and ideal soil conditions. The company represents one-third of Michigan’s fresh apple crop and is leading the way in food safety, new orchard technology and innovation in sales and marketing.

In 2017, Riveridge expanded into cider with its own facility, Riveridge Cider Co., pressing and bottling fresh apple cider in blends, varietals and seasonal flavors. Additionally, Riveridge markets fresh apples for Sunrise Orchards located in Gays Mills, Wisconsin.