Director
Fresh Produce
North America
Shape the future of North American fresh produce by leading market strategy and retail partnerships for an innovative European seed company expanding its tomato and pepper varieties across the continent.
Must-Haves
Experience:
7+ years of experience in the agro vegetables sector in North America
Proven track record in product placement and business development , ideally within fresh produce or seed industry
Demonstrated success managing relationships with
growers, distributors, and retailers
at the senior level
Experience developing and executing go-to-market strategies in agricultural markets
Education:
Academic degree in agriculture
or related field
Skills & Capabilities:
Strong understanding of North American fresh produce supply chains and retail dynamics
Ability to build and maintain relationships with key industry influencers and decision-makers
Experience structuring long-term product development plans and sales budgets
Proven ability to achieve sales revenue targets and drive market share growth
What You'll Achieve
Strategic Market Leadership
Design and execute a comprehensive
go-to-market strategy
to position tomato and pepper seed varieties with major North American retailers and suppliers
Lead the expansion into the North American market, driving growth and increasing market share through strategic positioning
Advise leadership on product mixes across market segments to achieve profitable volume and acceptable risk levels
Develop executable product and brand plans that differentiate the company in a competitive marketplace
Business Development & Relationship Building
Build and nurture high-level relationships with
senior decision-makers at key retail accounts and primary suppliers
Actively manage partnerships with growers, distributors, and retailers to create mutually beneficial outcomes
Develop and maintain relationships with key industry influencers who shape market trends and purchasing decisions
Communicate the company's market capabilities and innovation strengths to establish credibility and trust
Revenue Growth & Market Expansion
Structure long-term product development plans and sales budgets aligned with aggressive growth targets
Drive demand generation with focused efforts in assigned territories and accounts
Achieve sales revenue targets for the region through strategic account management and new business development
Evaluate, adjust, and manage the sales and product pipeline to maximize conversion and profitability
Product Strategy & Market Intelligence
Focus on accurate and timely planning and placement of varieties based on market needs and customer preferences
Collaborate with research, technical, marketing, and finance teams to evaluate product benefits, create value propositions, and develop pricing models
Plan, coordinate, and set direction for new product launches that capture market opportunities
Work with customer support teams to ensure reliable supply (mix, quantity, and quality) aligned with strategic business plans
Field Engagement & Promotional Activities
Lead field promotional activities including demo greenhouse tours, variety campaigns, and customer engagement events
Organize and execute field days and field trips that showcase product performance and innovation
Create memorable customer experiences that build brand loyalty and drive variety adoption
Regularly report on sales and commercial activities to provide visibility into market dynamics and progress
Why This Role Matters
Market-Shaping Opportunity
This is a ground-floor leadership role with a European seed innovator expanding its North American footprint. You will build the commercial foundation and set the strategic direction for fresh produce growth across the continent.
Direct Impact on Food Systems
Your work influences what varieties reach consumers, helping shape the fresh produce landscape in North America. Partner with growers and retailers to introduce high-quality tomato and pepper varieties that meet evolving market demands.
Cross-Functional Leadership
Serve as the bridge between R&D innovation and commercial execution, working closely with research, technical, marketing, and finance teams to translate product benefits into market success.
Autonomy & Strategic Influence
Lead with independence and creativity as you design go-to-market approaches, build key relationships, and advise on product strategy. Your insights and execution will directly influence company growth and market positioning.
Industry Leadership Position
Represent a company committed to innovation and quality, positioning yourself as a trusted advisor and thought leader within the North American fresh produce and seed industry.
This is an exceptional opportunity for an experienced agribusiness professional ready to lead market expansion, drive revenue growth, and make a lasting impact on the fresh produce sector.

Director Fresh Produce North America
iLocatum · Chicago, IL, USA ·
- Job type:
- Full Time