Peak industry body, NSW Chamber of Fresh Produce, trading as Freshmark, today announced its Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Mr James Kellaway, will be leaving the company on 6 October 2021 to further progress his career in the agriculture sector.
Freshmark Chairperson, Mr Carlo Trimboli, expressed his sincere thanks to Mr Kellaway.
“The Board would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge and sincerely thank James for his leadership and effort towards reinforcing the Chamber’s importance in our industry, driving positive change for the direct benefit of members and the central market system,” he said.
“He has provided outstanding leadership and vision through very difficult and challenging times. James’s determination and focus on diversification of products and services, innovation and growing the business were exemplary, and we sincerely wish him the very best for the future.
“The Board has commenced discussions regarding the recruitment of a new CEO. James will be involved in the search to identify a new CEO until his departure in early October. In the interim, it will be business as usual at Freshmark, as we continue to implement projects in line with the agreed 2021/22 Annual Operating Plan and 2019-24 Strategic Plan,” Trimboli concluded.
Mr Kellaway was appointed CEO of Freshmark in May 2018. He reformed the Chamber, building a proactive team to service its members under the guidance of his ambitious five-year strategic plan. He was instrumental in establishing new board structures and processes aligned with modern governance practice and enhanced member relations that led to refreshing the organisation and implementing a contemporary constitution.
Mr Trimboli says the Chamber is now in a strong position, leading from the forefront in driving positive change for the direct benefit of members and the central market system.
Mr Kellaway said: “I leave with a heavy heart, and it has been an absolute honour to work in a very established and traditional part of the Australian fresh produce industry. I regard Sydney Markets as Australia’s largest farmers market and an essential and integral part of the fresh produce supply chain. Its continual growth and success must be assured moving forward.
“I’m very grateful for the support provided to me by Carlo Trimboli as Chairperson and the directors of Freshmark during my tenure and wish Freshmark well into the future. The Chamber has the right intent, attitude and effort to ensure continued success and sustainability.”
