New Leader Named For FDOC

By Growing Produce Staff|December 22, 2011

“Douglas Ackerman understands the importance of citrus to our counties and state,” said Florida Citrus Commission Chairman Marty McKenna. “He has a tremendous amount of desire and determination to join the team.”

“The citrus industry requires leadership to get everyone together when we need to and I think he will connect well with growers.”

Ackerman, of Bartow, Fla., has 17 years of experience in retail, consumer packaged goods, and integrated marketing communications. Most recently, he served as Category Marketing Manager at Publix Super Markets for nearly seven years. He holds a Masters of Business Administration from the University of Tampa and a bachelor’s degree from Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, Texas.

An Executive Search Committee comprised of six commissioners selected Ackerman after interviewing three candidates from a pool of 114 applicants. The FCC voted to hire Ackerman at their Dec. 21 meeting.

“I’m really looking forward to working with all the growers, processors and staff at the Florida Department of Citrus in helping to promote Florida citrus,” Ackerman stated.

Ackerman will begin his new position in January.

Source: FDOC

The Florida Citrus Commission (FCC) selected Douglas R. Ackerman as the new Executive Director for the Florida Department of Citrus (FDOC) following a four-month search for an individual with an advanced understanding of marketing who will bring a strong set of leadership skills and diversity of thought to the citrus industry. “Douglas Ackerman understands the importance of citrus to our counties and state,” said Florida Citrus Commission Chairman Marty McKenna. “He has a tremendous amount of desire and determination to join the team.” The citrus industry requires leadership to get everyone together when we need to and I think he will connect well with growers.”

Ackerman, of Bartow, FL, has 17 years of experience in retail, consumer packaged goods, and integrated marketing communications. Most recently, he served as Category Marketing Manager at Publix Super Markets for nearly seven years. He holds a Masters of Business Administration from the University of Tampa and a bachelor’s degree from Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, TX.

“I’m really looking forward to working with all the growers, processors and staff at the Florida Department of Citrus in helping to promote Florida citrus,” Ackerman stated. Ackerman will begin his new position in January.