ST. LOUIS, MO - Mike O’Brien, 42-year veteran of Schnuck Markets, is retiring from his role as Vice President of Produce and Floral.  Its been quite a ride, the produce exec tells me, especially for someone who had his eye on broadcast journalism in my colleges years, and the D.J. arts.

“I originally saw myself going into some form of journalism, but instead I got my MBA and then produce got its hooks in me,” Mike notes.

Mike will be retiring at the end of October, but is planning on remaining in the produce sector.

“I see retirement in a different sense of the word.  It’s more of a transition for me into something new, but I am looking to stay in produce if I can help it,” he tells me.  “Although I am exploring many different options, Schnucks and produce are in my blood, so it makes sense tome to stick around.”

Mike started “as a puppy” at Schnuck Markets, getting his start with the company as a bagger in 1972.   He was promoted through a host of different positions that included Department, Store and Division Manager roles before assuming his title as VP of Produce and Floral.

“I am indebted and grateful to Schnucks for everything I have experienced and become over the years.  Working for this company has allowed me to collaborate with so many different people and aspects of the industry,” Mike reflects.

Mike has a world of knowledge under his belt, with an expertise in marketing, merchandising and operations as well as analytics and category management. 

“I know how to get things done and bring the right people together. Who would have thought I would be here after all these years? It began with a need for supplementing my gas money,” he laughs. “It’s exciting to sit back and watch things take their course."

Mike will be at PMA Fresh Summit this year in Anaheim, California.  If you don’t get a chance to congratulate the produce veteran before then, it will be as good a time as any. See you there, Mike!

Congrats again, from your friends at AndNowUKnow.

Schnuck Markets