WENATCHEE, WA – After over 20 years of experience with Kroger, Don Patella will be joining Columbia Marketing International (CMI) as the newest member of the company's skilled marketing team. In his new role, Don will be responsible for CMI's key retail accounts, the development of timely marketing promotions and helping CMI's partners to grow their produce categories.

“Understanding the dynamics of optimal selling performance is critical to both our growers and our retail customers,” stated Steve Lutz, Vice President of Marketing for CMI. “We’re excited about Don joining our team because he brings nearly 25 years of retail experience to CMI. We’re confident that he will be a terrific resource in the years to come in working closely with our customers to identify strategies and opportunities to drive sales of CMI apples, pears and cherries.”

Before joining CMI, Don worked in a variety of management and supervisory roles in the retail industry, serving most recently as a Regional Merchandiser for Kroger. In this position he was responsible for four Kroger divisions spanning 14 states with a primary focus on local suppliers, products and marketing across all departments within the store. Don will bring this wealth of experience with him to CMI, helping to promote the company's advance customer initiatives.

According to a press release, he will telecommute from his home state of Arizona for this position.

Congratulations on beginning this exciting new phase of your career, Don!

CMI