Dianna Rodriguez
Nogales,AZ
Summary
Experienced and passionate in Grower Relations, adept at facilitating commitments, relations, and negotiations to foster seamless communication among internal and external stakeholders. Demonstrated success in office management, including overseeing accounting functions, orchestrating efficient office operations, and maintaining optimal workflow dynamics. Proven track record in administrative and accounting roles, underscored by strong communication skills, resourcefulness, and extensive experience within the Produce Industry.
Aligned with the company's mission and objectives, I am committed to becoming a cornerstone of its success. Fueled by a dedication to excellence, innovation, and value, I bring a blend of skills and passion to drive the company forward. My mindful prioritization ensures a respectful engagement with farmers and a keen awareness of evolving market dynamics and cultivation practices. This enables me to provide invaluable support across all departmental functions, from sales and accounting to operations. I consider this comprehensive approach pivotal for the success of any esteemed Produce Company.
Overview
29
29
years of professional experience
Work History
Grower Relations & Purchasing Manager
Covilli Brand Organics
11.2017 - 11.2023
- Cultivated and managed relationships with new Growers.
- Facilitated direct communication with a multitude of existing growers, with a primary focus on organic citrus, to supervise exportation process. Responsibilities included managing logistics and coordinating distribution efforts.
- Provided detailed reports and facilitated communication regarding current agricultural trends, challenges, and opportunities to sales and marketing team.
- Established and maintained relationships and programs for organic limes, lemons, pineapples, and oranges sourced from diverse growers in Mexico, facilitating their marketing and distribution.
- Conducted field visits to growing sites in Mexico to ensure adherence to best-growing practices and fostered strong partnerships.
- Lead on-site organic and FSP inspections, audits, and application renewal processes.
- Coordinated efforts with binational customs brokers, transportation companies, USDA officials, SAGARPA (Mexican Ministry of Agriculture), US organic certification representatives, and field inspectors to facilitate international trade and distribution of Growers' products throughout the US and Canada.
- As Project Coordinator for four years, I spearheaded various initiatives, with notable focus on overseeing the graphic design and development of innovative sustainable packaging materials. I ensured strict adherence to industry standards and seamlessly integrated these materials into new product designs.
Office Manager & Grower Relations
Patagonia Orchards LLC
09.2004 - 10.2017
- Managed and directed accounting departments to ensure daily operations and responsibilities were executed with optimal efficiency.
- Demonstrated strong attention to detail in reconciling accounts and identifying discrepancies.
- Oversaw and managed bank transactions, financial reports, reconciliation reports, repack center reports, and grower and farm accounting liquidations.
- Maintained compliance with industry regulations and internal controls.
- Facilitated and supported FSP and organic certification requirements as well as annual renewal procedures from diverse agencies.
- Maintained daily communication with numerous growers, predominantly based in Mexico, to oversee the distribution of organic citrus, ginger, coconuts, mangoes, and pineapples. Responsibilities included staying abreast of operational details such as logistics, volumes, and packaging styles, as well as participating in elements of negotiations, writing contracts, and overseeing deals.
Sales Coordinator & Receptionist
Calavo
10.2003 - 04.2004
- Kept detailed records of sales and customer information in Famous, updating database regularly to maintain top-notch service.
- Communicated with customers via phone and email to confirm deliveries and respond to inquiries.
- Handled customer inquiries by staying up-to-date on market and industry trends and finding unique solutions to issues.
- Answered customer telephone calls promptly to avoid on-hold wait times.
- Performed monthly reconciliation of open purchasing orders.
- Communicated frequently with stores and vendors to manage orders and verify revisions on purchase orders.
- Worked closely with management to provide effective assistance for specific aspects of daily business operations.
Owner, Office Manager
Borderland Trading Inc.
01.1995 - 12.2000
- Managed day-to-day business operations.
- Enhanced operational efficiency and productivity by managing budgets, accounts, and costs.
- Applied proper codes to invoices, files, and receipts to keep records organized and easily searchable.
- Managed journal entries, collection efforts, reconciliations, and payroll processing.
- Developed and implemented various procedures to improve accounting process.
- Used accounting software to issue employee W-2s, prepare tax returns, and prepare consolidated reports.
- Collaborated with colleagues and support staff to maximize team efficiency.
Education
HS Diploma -
Nogales High School
Nogales, AZ05.1987
Some College (No Degree) - Liberal Arts And General Studies
Northern Arizona University
Flagstaff, AZSome College (No Degree) - Liberal Arts And General Studies
University of Arizona
Tucson, AZSkills
- Seasoned professional with over 25 years of diverse experience in the Produce Industry, spanning various roles and responsibilities
- Proficient in bilingual communication (English/Spanish), facilitating seamless interactions with diverse stakeholders
- Dedicated and driven professional with goal-oriented mindset, employing resourcefulness and passion to attain objectives effectively
- Highly organized, self-motivated, and detail-directed problem solver, adept at managing tasks effectively
- Demonstrated sales experience and negotiations, contributing to successful business development initiatives
- Known for loyalty, friendliness, and possessing excellent communication skills, fostering positive relationships with clients and colleagues
- Familiarity with Microsoft Suite, skilled in Microsoft Word and Microsoft Excel
- Proficient with Famous 62 Produce software, leveraging its capabilities for enhanced productivity and operational efficiency
- Experience utilizing FoodLogiq and possessing some knowledge of Salesforce, enhancing customer relationship management
- Administrative Management
- Proficient in public relations with extensive experience participating in multiple industry-related trade shows
Community Service
Santa Cruz Training Program, Board Member, 2000-2001
Pimeria Alta Historical Society Museum, Board Member, 2024 - Present
References
- Charlie Heermans, Organic Certifiers, charlieheermans@gmail.com, (951)834-5681
- Brian Itule, Ciruli Brothers, LLC, brian@cirulibrothers.com, (520)980-4501
- Larry Leavitt, Del-Tho Industries, larrybox2@aol.com, (714) 325-0602
Hobbies
Driven by the deeply ingrained culture and vibrant palette of Mexico, I've cultivated my abilities as an amateur photographer, adeptly immortalizing the faces, heritage, and traditions of farmers, workers, and community members.
Languages
English
Native or Bilingual
Spanish
Native or Bilingual
Timeline
Grower Relations & Purchasing Manager
Covilli Brand Organics
11.2017 - 11.2023
Office Manager & Grower Relations
Patagonia Orchards LLC
09.2004 - 10.2017
Sales Coordinator & Receptionist
Calavo
10.2003 - 04.2004
Owner, Office Manager
Borderland Trading Inc.
01.1995 - 12.2000
HS Diploma -
Nogales High School
Some College (No Degree) - Liberal Arts And General Studies
Northern Arizona University
Some College (No Degree) - Liberal Arts And General Studies
University of Arizona