Management

Stephen J. Barnard founded Mission Produce in 1983 and currently serves as our Chief Executive Officer.  Mr. Barnard also serves as a member of the Board of Directors, a role he has held since the Company was founded. Prior to founding Mission Produce, Mr. Barnard worked in the lettuce and avocado divisions of Santa Clara Produce, Inc. Mr. Barnard previously served as Chairman of the Produce Marketing Association (PMA), Chairman of the Western Growers Association, a director of the California Avocado Commission, and a director of Sunkist Growers. He currently serves as a director for the Cal Poly Foundation.

Mr. Barnard received a Bachelor of Science degree in agricultural business management from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo.

Mr. Barnard’s qualifications to serve on the Board of Directors include his deep and thorough knowledge of all aspects of our business and industry, his effective leadership and management skills, and his long-tenured service in senior roles with key industry groups.

John Pawlowski is an accomplished executive leader with over 25 years of experience in the global food and foodservice industry, specializing in business development, system optimization and executive team management. Pawlowski has a proven track record of leading international market growth strategies in large global organizations such as J.M. Smucker, where he held a number of progressive leadership roles over more than 16 years, culminating with a post as VP of International. Before joining Mission, he served as the President and COO of Lipari Foods, a leading independent distributor, where he was responsible for leading M&A and organic growth, expanding the company’s national distribution and designing its operational strategy. Pawlowski received a Bachelor of Science in Marketing from Miami University and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Kent State University. John’s favorite way to enjoy avocados is fresh made guacamole and avocado toast.