James Snyder Returns to Calavo Growers to Lead Financial Operations as CFO

Calavo Growers, Inc., a prominent global entity in the processing and distribution of avocados, tomatoes, papayas, and guacamole, has named James Snyder as its new Chief Financial Officer (CFO), effective December 2, 2024.

This announcement follows the departure of the current CFO, Shawn Munsell, who will step down on November 29 to pursue new opportunities. Munsell will remain with the company as a consultant through December to ensure a seamless handover.

James Snyder is no stranger to Calavo, having previously dedicated 18 years to the company as Corporate Controller and Chief Accounting Officer.

Lee Cole, President and Chief Executive Officer of Calavo Growers, expressed enthusiasm for Snyder’s return.

“We are excited to welcome James back to Calavo. He served the company exceptionally well during his previous tenure, and we are thrilled to have him lead the financial division he knows so thoroughly. We also extend our gratitude to Shawn for his contributions over the past two and a half years and wish him success in his future endeavors.”

For Snyder, this appointment marks a significant return to a company where he established a substantial part of his career. “Returning to Calavo will be like a homecoming for me,” Snyder remarked. “I am eager to help Lee and the team move the company forward as its CFO.”

Snyder’s professional background underscores his suitability for the role. Most recently, he served as Corporate Controller and Chief Accounting Officer at Gem-Pack Berries in Irvine, California, a position he held since April 2024.

Before that, he occupied a similar role at Nano Banc from 2020 to 2024. His initial stint with Calavo began in 2001 and lasted until 2020, during which he played a pivotal role in the company’s financial operations. Earlier in his career, Snyder honed his expertise at Deloitte, where he spent seven years in various audit-related capacities.

Calavo Growers, founded in 1924 and headquartered in Santa Paula, California, is renowned for its innovative practices and commitment to sustainability. The company’s products, marketed under the Calavo brand and other labels, cater to a diverse clientele, including retail grocery stores, foodservice providers, and wholesale distributors worldwide. With facilities across the U.S. and Mexico, Calavo remains a leading force in the fresh produce market.

This leadership change highlights Calavo’s focus on maintaining operational excellence while navigating transitions smoothly. As stated in the press release, Calavo remains committed to advancing its growth trajectory under Snyder’s financial leadership.

For further details on Calavo’s forward-looking strategies and the associated risks, stakeholders are encouraged to consult the company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q. These documents provide a comprehensive view of the uncertainties and assumptions that may influence the company’s future outcomes.