Almond Alliance's next CEO serves on state almond board

The Almond Alliance, an advocacy group that represents almond processors, hullers and shellers, and marketers, has named a new CEO.

Alexi Rodriguez, who currently chairs the Almond Board of California’s board of directors, will lead the Almond Alliance starting next year. She will continue as ABC’s board chair through December. Rodriguez replaces Aubrey Bettencourt, who served nearly three years as the alliance’s CEO before stepping down last spring.

Besides her role with the almond board, a marketing group for the state’s almond sector, Rodriguez has 15 years of experience in the industry, including as operations director for Fresno County-based Campos Brothers Farms, an almond grower and handler.

In a statement, Almond Alliance Chairman Blake Vann praised Rodriguez for her service to the almond sector, including her work on regulatory and compliance matters.

“Her proven leadership and deep understanding of the almond industry make her the ideal choice to guide our organization into the future,” Vann said.

“Alexi has been a steadfast advocate for the industry, and we are confident that under her leadership the Almond Alliance will continue to thrive and champion the interests of our members.”

In a statement, Rodriguez said, “I’m looking forward to utilizing my knowledge and experience to advocate for this great industry and connect with industry members as we navigate the challenges ahead.”

Clarice Turner, president and CEO of the almond board, credited Rodriguez for bringing “insight and energy in helping guide our board and in working hard to support the almond industry during a difficult economic period for California almonds and all of California farming.”

The state’s $3.5 billion almond sector has struggled in recent years with falling prices as farmers continue to remove trees.