IRVINE, CA - A pivotal fixture of the California avocado sector will soon be hanging up their hat. I am speaking of Jan DeLyser, current Vice President of Marketing at the California Avocado Commission (CAC), who recently announced her upcoming retirement. After 24 years of service to CAC, the tentative timing for her retirement is mid-February 2023.

“California avocados have been a significant part of my life for nearly a quarter of a century, and my entire adulthood has revolved around the produce world that I love,” said DeLyser. “Now I’m looking forward to new experiences, more time with family, and staying in touch with colleagues who have become dear friends.”

Across her 47-year career, DeLyser has held a number of positions working with the Fresh Produce Council (now Fresh Produce & Floral Council), Sun World International, Westlake Produce, and more. She joined CAC in 1998 as Merchandising Director for the Southwest Region, and in 2000 was promoted to VP of Merchandising. She entered her current role back in 2003.

“Jan DeLyser is an icon in the produce industry and has been instrumental in the development of the avocado category and the premium California avocado brand,” said Jeff Oberman, President of CAC. “No doubt Jan’s family would have loved for her to retire a bit earlier; instead her commitment to California avocados, the growers, and supporting the Commission through its recent leadership transition has been invaluable and appreciated.”

DeLyser currently serves on the International Fresh Produce Association’s DEI committee, represents the Commission on the Buy California Marketing Agreement as a Board Member, and is a member of the Brighter Bites Los Angeles committee.

Rob Grether, Chairman of CAC, commented on the news in a press release.

“As a director of the California Avocado Commission, I have had the pleasure of working closely with Jan and witnessing firsthand her exceptional leadership, creativity, and unrivaled understanding of the produce industry,” shared Grether. “It is as a California avocado grower that I am most grateful to Jan for her tireless efforts over the past 24 years to not only increase demand for our state’s avocados, but to also lay the foundation for sustainable demand for years to come.”

CAC is actively seeking a VP of Marketing to serve after DeLyser’s retirement.

For more on DeLyser, read the press release here.

We wish you all the best as you embark on this new journey!

California Avocado Commission