US fresh produce company Chiquita Brands has announced that Jeffrey M. Zalla is to become senior vice president and chief financial officer from 1 June, 2005.

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Zalla will be responsible for all aspects of the company’s financial operations worldwide.  He replaces John (Jay) W Braukman III, who will remain with the company as senior vice president of new business development and strategic planning.


“One of my overriding priorities has been to ensure that we have the right people in the right positions throughout the company,” said Fernando Aguirre, chairman and chief executive officer.  “I am confident that this appointment will help ensure this goal is met.”


“During the past several months, Jeff has been integral to every key financial decision in the company, including the Fresh Express acquisition and the recent refinancing of the company’s senior notes,” he said. “In large part as a result of his hard work as well as that of the rest of the team, we continue to target closing the Fresh Express transaction by the end of the second quarter.”


Aguirre emphasized that this management transition is not connected in any way to the employee conduct issue announced in the company’s April 25 press release and subsequent 10-Q filing.

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“Jay has conducted himself with great integrity during his time in the position,” Aguirre said.  “We are pleased that he has agreed to stay on with the company to contribute in new business development, an area where Chiquita requires more financial expertise and one which is particularly suited to his strengths.”


Most recently, Zalla served as vice president of finance for Chiquita Fresh North America and was previously responsible for the company’s treasury, credit, risk management and financial analysis functions.  In addition, Zalla served as Chiquita’s corporate responsibility officer for five years.