1. Steve Barnard transitions to Executive Chairman; John Pawlowski becomes CEO in April 2026. 2. Three independent directors appointed as part of a Board refreshment initiative. 3. Mission Produce has shown exceptional financial performance and completed a significant capital cycle. 4. Pawlowski aims to enhance avocado consumption and free cash flow generation. 5. Board changes aim to strengthen leadership for future growth opportunities.
FAQ
Why Bullish?
The leadership transition indicates strong future prospects, similar to successful CEO successions in other companies.
How important is it?
Leadership changes and strategic direction can significantly impact investor confidence and stock performance.
Why Long Term?
The leadership and board changes set the stage for sustained growth and market leadership.
Mission Produce Announces Leadership Transition and Board Refreshment Initiative
Oxnard, Calif., December 18, 2025 – Mission Produce, Inc. (NASDAQ: AVO), a leader in the sourcing, production, and distribution of fresh Hass avocados, has officially announced a significant leadership transition and an update on its Board refreshment initiative. This strategic move aims to enhance the Company's capability to accelerate growth, achieve long-term goals, and maximize shareholder value.
Leadership Successions at Mission Produce
Effective at the close of the upcoming Annual Meeting of Shareholders in April 2026, John Pawlowski, the current President and Chief Operating Officer, will assume the role of Chief Executive Officer. This transition follows two years of remarkable financial performance and the successful conclusion of a critical capital expenditure cycle. Steve Barnard, the co-founder and long-standing CEO since 1988, will shift to the position of Executive Chairman of the Board, focusing on the Company’s strategic direction.
Steve Barnard stated, “Over the past four decades, our team has built Mission into a global leader in avocados. We expanded operations, strengthened our distribution networks, and established ourselves as the preferred partner for retailers and foodservice customers globally. Our recent performance, characterized by increased cash flow generation and a robust balance sheet, positions the Company for exciting future opportunities.”
John Pawlowski's Vision for the Future
John Pawlowski expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to lead Mission Produce, stating, “Mission Produce is exceptionally well-positioned. Our world-class growing operations and global distribution infrastructure provide significant competitive advantages that drive our strong performance. I look forward to leading our talented team as we enhance avocado consumption worldwide and create value for our customers, growers, and shareholders.”
Pawlowski joined Mission in April 2024, bringing over 25 years of experience in the global food and foodservice industry. His background includes notable roles at Lipari Foods and J.M. Smucker, where he honed his skills in business development and organizational leadership.
Strategic Board Refreshment Initiative
Alongside the leadership transition, Mission Produce is also executing a strategic Board refreshment initiative. This effort involved adding three new independent directors with extensive backgrounds in finance, food and beverage operations, and agribusiness. These changes are intended to provide a smooth transition in leadership, especially with the anticipated retirement of long-time Board Chair, Stephen Beebe, and Board member Bonnie Lind.
Linda Segre, who has been a Board member since 2020, has been appointed as the new Lead Independent Director. Barnard commended Beebe’s invaluable contributions and advised the company looks forward to further strategic advancements under this refreshed leadership.
Newly Appointed Directors
- Michael Sims (Appointed May 2025): A seasoned financial executive with over 40 years of experience.
- Laura Flanagan (Appointed June 2025): Former CEO of Ripple Foods, bringing extensive industry leadership.
- Douglas Stone (Appointed November 2025): Former President of AgriBusiness at J.R. Simplot Company, with deep agribusiness roots.
About Mission Produce, Inc.
Founded in 1983, Mission Produce (NASDAQ: AVO) is a global leader in the fresh produce sector, providing high-quality fresh Hass avocados and mangos to retail, wholesale, and foodservice customers in over 25 countries. The Company continues to set the standard in avocado sourcing, production, and distribution.