Index Fresh expands business development team

Corona, Calif.-based avocado marketer Index Fresh has added Carlos Duarte to its sales and business development team.

Duarte has over a decade of experience in avocados; he most recently served as an account manager for Calavo Growers, focused on fresh sales for key accounts nationwide, according to a news release. Drawn to Index Fresh’s extensive history, Duarte appreciates the high value the company places on stability and fostering lasting relationships, the company said.

“We are thrilled to welcome Carlos to our team,” said Index Fresh CEO Steve Roodzant. “His extensive experience and proven track record in the avocado industry will be instrumental as we continue to position ourselves for significant growth. With talented individuals like Carlos on board, we are laying a strong foundation for future success and innovation.”

“Carlos has established himself as a seasoned professional in the avocado industry, demonstrating exceptional teamwork skills and bringing a wealth of knowledge that will enhance both Index Fresh’s team and our customers,” said John Dmytriw, Index Fresh vice president of business development. “From fruit quality and availability to strategic market positioning, Carlos has a very strong foundation in avocados to drive consumer demand. His ability to grow the businesses of those he collaborates with by addressing their unique needs and leveraging his in-depth knowledge of industry trends makes him a valuable asset to our team.”

This summer Duarte was accepted into the Board Leadership Development — or BOLD — Program, an initiative by the Hass Avocado Board designed to cultivate the next generation of industry leaders. The program equips participants with crucial insights into HAB’s strategies for driving avocado demand in the U.S. market.

By providing participants with essential tools, education and mentorship, the program aims for a seamless transition of leadership and promotes sustainable industry growth, the release said.

“We recognize the significant potential for expanding avocado sales, particularly through Index Fresh’s extensive national network,” Duarte said. “I’m excited about the opportunity to leverage proven strategies in consulting with our customers to drive demand growth and business development. Index operates as a tight knit team, with all members aligned on our strategic objectives and working collaboratively to achieve our goals.”

Before entering the avocado industry, Duarte built a career in the wholesale mortgage industry. Index Fresh says he found that transitioning to the more dynamic produce sector allowed him to truly excel.