HOUSTON, TX - Nothing ventured, nothing gained. I feel as if this notion could be widely applied to many in an industry like ours, and now more than ever as the changing tides require our leaders to strive even harder and more passionately for excellence. When I speak of Sysco’s Julie Olivarria, this sentiment comes to mind as she assumes the role of Vice President of Produce for Sysco, bringing more than 25 years of produce industry expertise under her belt.

With Rich Dachman retiring from the role this summer, Julie is looking to this next evolution of Sysco and the role she will play on an exciting road ahead.

“I’ve been entrusted to lead the Sysco produce team across the business and am extremely excited for the incredible opportunity,” Julie shares with me. “I am responsible for continued growth in the category and to maintain our position as the industry leader. Under Rich’s leadership, we changed the way we procure and bring product to market. I feel a tremendous responsibility to carry on his legacy and continue to grow our business into the future.”

Julie started her produce career with Fresh Choice more than 26 years ago in an entry level position that inspired her to work her way into sales. In 1999, she was recruited by Sysco to be a produce buyer and, since then, has held several roles with Sysco in the produce procurement office, including the last five years as Senior Director, overseeing the accounting and procurement teams.

Over the last five years, Rich Dachman has accelerated Julie’s leadership growth and prepared her for her new role as Vice President of Produce with his continued guidance and mentorship.

“A wise man once told me that your legacy is defined after you leave; in my case, it could not be in better hands than with Julie,” Rich warmly tells me. “She has such a great reputation for integrity and perfectly walking the fine line of being a highly-effective, assertive leader, while simultaneously treating people fairly and with respect. Additionally, her deep relationships with our suppliers are a great asset. I have no doubt she will take Sysco’s produce team and FreshPoint to the next level.”

And Julie’s passion for the industry can truly be seen in her approach to the industry and her drive to succeed.

“When I started in 1999 as a produce buyer, I had a hunger for knowledge and a passion to learn all that I could about the business. I sought out every opportunity to learn and grow,” Julie says. “I built relationships and made connections across the country, and when an opportunity presented itself for career development, I was ready for it. The industry has changed dramatically from 20 years ago. There used to be very few roles in produce—you were in sales or you supported sales. Today the opportunities are countless. I’ve seen the industry evolve and roles expand, for both men and women.”

While Julie officially assumes the role on March 1st, she has already begun taking on the responsibilities and trying to absorb all she can from Rich during this transition period.

“I am blessed that my home office will remain in Salinas, California,” Julie shares, “but as Sysco is a global company, I have the opportunity to impact the industry in unlimited geographies.”

Please join me in congratulating Julie on her exciting promotion to Vice President of Produce for Sysco! Sure, when one door closes another opens—but for Julie, I feel like she only dreams in open doors.

Sysco