Plant-based food and drink producer SunOpta has picked a new CEO to replace Joe Ennen, who will be retiring from the company.

Ennen had worked as the group’s CEO since 2019.

SunOpta’s board of directors appointed Brian Kocher to take on the position effective January 2.

Ennen is expected to remain on the board until April, in an advisory role.

Kocher serves as chairman of AgroFresh and previously worked as president and CEO at Calavo Growers, a global avocado distributor. He spent a decade at Chiquita Brands, where he held positions including CFO and COO. 

A pioneer in the sustainable food and beverage industry, SunOpta was named R&FF's 2023 Processor of the Year.