FALLS CHURCH, VA - Some exciting leadership news has crossed our desks, as the U.S. Apple Association (USApple) named Brett Baker to lead its Board of Directors. Raised on a fruit and vegetable farm in Ransomville, New York, Baker follows a unique legacy in both the apple business and in this leadership role in particular, as Baker’s father, Paul Baker, was Chair of USApple in 1989.

“It's an honor to be elected as the chair of USApple,” said Baker. “I am committed to continuing the work of my predecessors—including my own late father—to advocate for our industry, foster innovation, and overcome the challenges we face. As an industry working together, we can enact meaningful change through USApple.”

After graduating from Cornell University in 1999, Baker spent some years on the family farm before going into the grocery retail business with Aldi for nine years.

A press release shared that Baker succeeds 2023–24 USApple Chair Steve Clement, Chief Executive Officer of PNW Tree Fruit in Washington. The gavel was officially passed from Clement to Baker at USApple’s Board of Directors meeting in Chicago at the completion of its Outlook conference.

“This is a pivotal time to have someone with Brett’s experience and deep-rooted passion for agriculture at the helm of our Board of Directors,” said Jim Bair, President and Chief Executive Officer of USApple. “His leadership will be essential to driving innovation and addressing challenges.”

Here is a quick look at USApple’s 2024–25 elected board officers:

• Chair: Brett Baker, President, United Apple Sales; NY
• Vice Chair: Steve Smith, Vice President, Marketing, Washington Fruit; WA
• Secretary: Philip Glaize, III, Head of Operations / Sales, Glaize Apples, VA
• Treasurer: Kaari Stannard, President and CEO, New York Apple Sales; NY
• Immediate Past Chair: Steve Clement, CEO, PNW Tree Fruit; WA

A very fitting position for Baker. ANUK sends a big congratulations!