News Summary
The California Avocado Commission has appointed Ken Melban as president, effective May 22, 2025. With over a decade of experience at CAC, Melban aims to strengthen support for California avocado growers and expand the industry. His leadership has been pivotal in advocating for growers and enhancing agricultural practices and export initiatives. Melban’s commitment to community service further underscores his dedication to the sector.
California – The California Avocado Commission (CAC) has announced the promotion of Ken Melban to the position of president, effective May 22, 2025. This leadership transition marks a significant step for the organization as it continues to address the needs of California avocado growers and promote the industry.
Melban, who has been with the CAC since 2011, initially joined the organization as the director of issues management. His roles have progressively escalated, culminating in his position as vice president of industry affairs and operations, a role he has held since late 2023. During his time at CAC, Melban has gained a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities within the avocado industry.
Jason Cole, chair of the CAC board, commended Melban’s effective leadership in managing financial and administrative operations as well as overseeing crucial industry affairs programs. His deep commitment to advocating for the interests of California avocado growers has been evident throughout his tenure, particularly in leading initiatives that respond to pressing challenges faced by the industry.
One of the notable achievements during Melban’s career at CAC is the advocacy work directed towards the U.S. government’s preventive measures against incoming pests from imported avocados, ensuring the health and safety of domestic crops. In addition to this, he has taken proactive steps to support growers recovering from severe fires, illustrating his dedication to their welfare.
Melban’s leadership has also been instrumental in the development and adoption of Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) for the California avocado sector, setting industry standards for growth and operations. Furthermore, he spearheaded efforts that expanded the California avocado export program, successfully securing market access to China in 2020 after extensive negotiations lasting nine years. These initiatives reflect Melban’s vision and commitment to leveraging new opportunities for California avocados on a global scale.
Before his time at CAC, Melban amassed two decades of leadership experience within the produce industry. His roles included collaborations with various California commodity boards and participation in the National Grape & Wine Initiative, showcasing his comprehensive experience in agricultural advocacy and management.
Melban holds a Bachelor of Arts and a Master’s degree in leadership and organizational studies from Fresno Pacific University. His academic background, combined with his extensive real-world experience, positions him well for leading CAC in meeting the challenges of an evolving agricultural landscape.
In addition to his professional responsibilities, Melban is actively involved in community service, contributing his expertise to organizations such as the California Department of Food and Agriculture’s Climate Change Adaptation Consortium and the Ventura AG Futures Alliance. His engagement in these groups reflects his commitment not only to the avocado industry but also to broader agricultural and environmental issues in California.
The CAC board’s decision to elevate Melban to the presidency is expected to build upon the groundwork he has laid in previous roles, aiming to strengthen and promote the California avocado industry as it navigates future challenges and opportunities. With his rich experience and deep knowledge of the sector, Melban is poised to continue advocating for California avocado growers and fostering an environment conducive to growth and sustainability.
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