Fred Berry, senior account manager for Homegrown Organic Farms, based in Porterville, CA, will retire May 31 after decades of service in the produce industry.

After joining the company in 2015, Berry helped cultivate significant direct-to-retail relationships within the company’s citrus category and beyond. His contributions to Homegrown Organic Farms and the ease with which he exuded the company’s mission, vision and values will be missed, the company said in a statement, adding that his legacy can be considered a new standard of excellence for industry rookies.

“Fred brought savvy business acumen and extensive knowledge of the industry to Homegrown team,” said Craig Morris, citrus category director. “He will be greatly missed as he enters into this new retirement chapter.”

Berry earned his bachelor's degree in agriculture economics and business management from University of California-Davis, and was a member of the California Agricultural Leadership Program, Class 20. Prior to his time with Homegrown, Berry worked with Mulholland Citrus as director of marketing. He has also maintained direct relationships with industry boards and affiliations such as California Citrus Mutual and California Fresh Fruit Association.