Driscoll's, a global fresh berry company, has announced the retirement of longtime board member Neil P. DeFeo after 27 years of service. Berry Marttin, an agricultural finance expert with extensive experience, has been appointed to the company's Board of Directors, a move aimed at strengthening Driscoll's focus on global growth, innovation, and sustainability.
DeFeo joined Driscoll's Board in 1998, playing a strategic role during a period of significant expansion. His tenure coincided with the company's transformation from a regional business to an international brand under the leadership of J. Miles Reiter, who has served as Chairman since 1988 and held the role of CEO from 2000 to 2015 and again from 2018 to 2024. As Executive Chairman, Reiter acknowledged DeFeo's contributions, emphasizing his focus on business strategy and consumer insights.
DeFeo's career extends beyond Driscoll's. He served as Chairman and CEO of Playtex Products Company, where he significantly increased shareholder value before its acquisition by Energizer Holdings. His experience also includes senior roles at Procter & Gamble, the Clorox Company, and Remington Products. DeFeo co-founded Sun Products Company and Nonantum Capital Partners, with board service in both public and private companies, as well as mission-driven organizations.
Berry Marttin joins Driscoll's Board with over 30 years of experience in agricultural finance and sustainability. His career includes serving on the Managing Board of Rabobank from 2009 to 2023, overseeing areas such as Wholesale and Rural Banking, Global Food and Agriculture, Leasing, and Sustainability, including the Rabo Carbon Bank. Marttin's experience spans executive roles in multiple regions, including Australia, Indonesia, Hong Kong, Curaçao, and Brazil. He also served as Chairman of Rabobank Amsterdam and held leadership positions with the European Association of Co-operative Banks (EACB).
Marttin's board experience includes roles with the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN), Koppert BV, the Rainforest Alliance, the Hans R. Neumann Foundation, and the International Advisory Board of the Sustainable Nutrition Initiative at New Zealand's Riddet Institute. His background in agricultural finance, sustainability, and food systems is expected to support Driscoll's strategic objectives in the coming years.
For more information:
Frances Dillard
Driscoll's
Tel: +1 800 871 3333
Email: [email protected]
www.driscolls.com