Dennis Christou, who for the past 15 years has worked in marketing for Del Monte Fresh Produce, rising to the position of vice president of marketing-North America, announced his departure from the Coral Gables, FL-based company, effective April 17.

Prior to joining Del Monte Fresh in 2004, Christou spent 18 years with Chiquita Brands International, the last five as director of marketing for Europe. In that role, he was instrumental in advancing the brand in Eastern Europe.

While at Del Monte Fresh, he was heavily involved in a number of product launches both in Europe and North America. Last summer, he helped spearhead the company’s launch of the Better Break line of prepared meals, with a nod toward millennials, to offer tasty, convenient and wholesome options for lunch and snacking.

More recently, he helped champion Del Monte’s sustainability efforts. In January, he touted the adoption of new pineapple tags that feature one of six unique Del Monte Fresh sustainability facts designed to engage directly with consumers, assuring them that when they buy Del Monte Fresh-branded products they are doing so from an organization committed to building a sustainable future.

Christou said he intends to take time off during the next few months as he plans his next endeavor.

“During the past 15 years with Fresh Del Monte I have had many professional and personal experiences that I will always cherish,” he said. “I not only had the opportunity to work for an exciting company with a legendary global brand, but I also had the privilege to work with some of the best professionals in the industry.”