Equitable Food Initiative Names Adriana Martinez as Director of Certifications and Elvia Gonzalez as Client Manager; Peter O'Driscoll Comments
WASHINGTON, DC - Two new team members have joined Equitable Food Initiative’s (EFI) leadership ring. The organization recently named Adriana Martinez as Director of Certification Programs and Elvia Gonzalez as Client Manager.
“As a young girl I admired my father’s determination as a seasonal farmworker traveling to Salinas during the summers,” Martinez stated. “My knowledge about and appreciation for the produce industry has been a part of my reality for as long as I can remember, and I love that I have come full circle to a role where I can now support and champion how farmworkers make their companies more efficient and productive.”
Having worked in various sectors including government, corporate, and as a consultant in community and economic development, Martinez is eager to join the fresh produce industry. She now oversees all aspects of the certification program and will streamline processes to ensure efficient and satisfying customer experiences.
Gonzalez also recently joined EFI to assist grower-shipper partners in reaching and maintaining their EFI certification.
“As somebody who has worked at many levels in the produce industry—from fields to distribution centers—I am excited to use my knowledge to partner with grower-shippers and introduce EFI’s training and collaboration model to their operations. I have seen firsthand how creating positive workplaces that integrate voices from all levels of the workforce can pay big dividends in efficiencies and innovation,” Gonzalez remarked.
Gonzalez’s career in the produce industry began 25 years ago as a seasonal migrant farmworker. Prior to joining EFI, she managed policies and procedures to address and improve operations in fresh produce organizations. Her work has included managing supply chain operations and creating standards for best practices.
“2022 was a year of realignment for EFI as we launched a new strategy and diversified our program offerings to better deliver on our mission,” Peter O’Driscoll, Executive Director, commented. “We’re excited to welcome Adriana and Elvia to the team. They bring rich real-world experience from produce operations and program management, and a customer-centered approach. Their roles are integral to scaling our proven certification program, and I’m sure that current and prospective growers will appreciate their knowledge and skills.”
Congratulations to EFI’s two new team members!
