Sara Oliver Retires After 30 Years at Grimmway Farms
Grimmway Farms has announced the retirement of Sara Oliver, the Chief People Officer (CPO). After more than 30 years of dedicated service now its time to take break with flowers & many wishes. Her retirement marks the end of an era for the company, which has flourished under her leadership in human resources and corporate social responsibility.
Oliver has overseen the company’s employee relations and career development. Also corporate philanthropy, has been a pivotal figure in Grimmway’s growth. Known for her commitment to developing talent, she has helped create career opportunities for women and established programs that prioritize employee well-being and safety.
Jeff Huckaby, Grimmway Farms’ President and CEO, praised Oliver’s dedication, saying, “Sara’s leadership has been instrumental in shaping our company culture and growing our business. Her focus on respect, fairness, and safety has set a strong foundation for our continued success.”
New Leadership in Human Resources
Stepping into the role of Chief People Officer is Peter Vitarisi, a seasoned leader with more than 20 years of experience in the food and beverage industry. Vitarisi joined Grimmway earlier this year and has worked closely with Oliver during a smooth transition period. He officially takes over as CPO as of October 1, 2024, while Oliver will remain in an advisory role until her retirement in January 2025.
Vitarisi comes with an impressive resume, having held key HR positions at Basic American Foods, E. & J. Gallo Winery, and J.M. Smucker Company. His focus has been on employee engagement, recruitment, and talent retention—all vital areas for a company like Grimmway Farms.
“Over the past few months, I’ve seen how deeply Grimmway values its employees, and I’m excited to continue building on Sara’s legacy,” Vitarisi shared. “Our people are what make this company great, and I’m committed to ensuring we attract and retain the best talent.”
A Lasting Legacy
Reflecting on her decades at Grimmway Farms, Oliver expressed her gratitude: “It’s been an honor to work with such a dedicated team. While it’s bittersweet to step down, I’m thankful to stay involved in an advisory role over the next few months.”
Oliver’s contributions to Grimmway Farms extend beyond HR policies and programs. She has been a driving force in the company’s strategic growth and acquisitions, playing a crucial role in expanding its footprint. Her leadership has also strengthened Grimmway’s commitment to corporate philanthropy and community relations.
As Grimmway Farms continues to thrive, Oliver’s influence will remain evident in the company’s culture and values. Her legacy of putting people first has become ingrained in the very fabric of the organization.
For Grimmway Farms, this leadership change is not just a transition but a reflection of their forward-thinking approach to growth. With Vitarisi at the helm of human resources, the company is set to continue its legacy of nurturing talent and promoting a positive workplace environment.
Grimmway Farms remains a global leader in produce, known for its organic crops and commitment to sustainability. As they look toward the future, the company continues to prioritize its most valuable resource—its people.
