Troubled organic dried fruit producer Murray River Organics Group Limited has announced the appointment of a new managing director and CEO.
Valentina Tripp will step into the top job following the departure of former chief executive George Haggar who was hired only six months ago following the resignation of Erling Sorensen.
The moves at the top follow heavy financial losses for the company, which was publicly listed on the ASX just last year.
Tripp has extensive experience and a track record of success in turnarounds and growing businesses in FMCG, agribusiness and retail across Asia and global markets, the company's board of directors said.
Most recently she worked for Top Cut group as executive director, where she led the turnaround, repositioning and growth of the meat distribution business in Australia, China, Japan and Korea; together with resetting the future strategy for Simplot as the leading FMCG and agribusiness in Australia.
Prior to Simplot, Valentina was senior director with KPMG, leading transformation, strategy, customer growth, supply chain, operational and financial turnarounds.
Murray River Organics chairman, Andrew Monk said, “Val’s experience will help steer the direction of the business as it emerges from a period of significant change.
“The Board of Murray River Organics acknowledges that the business has gone through a challenging period, which has been difficult for our staff, customers, suppliers and shareholders.
“We are all now focused and aligned on our future, attracting the expertise and skills to drive the performance and growth of the Company in its next phase of development.
“As our company sets its sights on expansion across Australia, Asia, US and Europe, someone of Val’s proven leadership and operational experience will help rebuild a strong operating backbone and positive culture for our organisation – driving change and forward momentum," Monk said.
Tripp said that as Australia’s largest certified organic producer of dried vine fruit, Murray River Organis Group had a “unique foundation” to bring high quality Australian organic products to the world.
“I look forward to working with the Murray River Organics team to build on this foundation for the next phase of our growth strategy and to take the business to a new level.”
Tripp’s role commences immediately, with outgoing CEO Mr George Haggar to remain in the business until the end of June to assist with the transition.
