VALENCIA, CA - Sunkist Growers and Fruit Growers Supply (FGS) have announced the retirement of long-time President and CEO, Russ Hanlin, after over 41 years of service. Jim Phillips, current President of Porterville Citrus has been named by the board as the two cooperative’s incoming President and CEO. Hanlin is set to retire at the end of the 2019 fiscal year on October 31.

“I look forward to working with Jim in the months ahead. I am confident he will take our two cooperatives to great heights in the future,” Hanlin commented.

Hanlin is leaving Sunkist and FGS in good hands, as Phillips brings over 30 years of experience in the agriculture industry to his new position.

Growing up in a farming family, Phillips developed a taste for the industry at a young age. Phillips has spent most of his career working with Sunkist-affiliated shippers in various leadership positions. He has also served on the Sunkist, FGS, and California Citrus Mutual boards since the late 1990s. Phillips will be welcomed with open arms, beginning his role as CEO-elect starting July 1.

“Sunkist has been a fundamental cornerstone to the citrus industry for well over a century,” said Phillips, in a press release. “It’s my passion to grow and deliver exceptional quality fruit while getting the highest returns for our California and Arizona citrus growers. Sunkist has a talented group of people, and I’m excited to work alongside them to carry the iconic brand into the future.”

“Russ has made tremendous contributions to Sunkist Growers and the citrus industry overall,” added Gerald Denni, Chairman of Sunkist’s Board of Directors. “We will certainly miss Russ’ leadership. On behalf of the board, I would like to thank Russ for his dedication to our growers, shippers, employees, and customers, and to welcome Jim to the executive leadership team at Sunkist Growers.”

A big congratulations from ANUK to Russ, on what is sure to be a very happy retirement, and Jim for his exciting new position!

Sunkist Growers Fruit Growers Supply