The Texas International Produce Association (TIPA) Board of Directors has announced the selection of Dante Galeazzi as the new President & CEO with an effective start date of May 1, 2017.
TIPA Chairman, Jimmy Bassetti of J&D Produce said, “We are excited to have Dante taking the reins at TIPA. He has the energy and passion, as well as the industry knowledge to continue the tremendous momentum we have built over the last 5 years.”
Having built a career in the produce industry, Dante Galeazzi brings a vast set of experiences to the position. From growing up on a small farm in Manteca, CA, to studies in International Business at Cal State University, Monterey Bay and positions in produce transportation and logistics, produce sales, operations management, and grower relations, Galeazzi understands the issues of the TIPA membership. In addition to his career experience, Galeazzi is no stranger to TIPA having served on the TIPA Board of Directors for nearly 10 years, including eight years on the Executive Committee and a full two-year term as Chairman of the Board.
Galeazzi remarked, “To say I am excited about this opportunity would be a huge understatement. I feel such an incredibly strong connection to this industry, especially to Texas and to the TIPA organization.” Galeazzi continued, “I’m eager to get to work and continue delivering value to our membership through events like VIVA Fresh and providing issues management to our domestic grower/shippers and importer members.”
Galeazzi was hired after a board initiated search and interview process when current President & CEO Bret Erickson recently announced to the TIPA Board his intention to pursue a new leadership position with an international agricultural technology firm following the completion of the 2017 VIVA Fresh Produce Expo.
“Choosing to leave TIPA has absolutely been the most difficult professional decision I have ever made,” said Bret Erickson. “I’ve worked closely with Dante on the TIPA Board and he has provided countless hours of volunteer service and guidance to this organization. I am confident his dedication and enthusiasm will serve the industry and our membership well.”
Bassetti continued, “We’re sorry to see Bret leave. He brought a great attitude and confident leadership to TIPA which has been reflected in our growth, influence and success. The positive impact he made at the association and our industry will be felt for years to come. We’ll miss Bret but we wish him the best as he begins a new chapter in his career.”
Contact:
Alison Edgar
Full Tilt Marketing
Tel: 952.221.1031