End of an era: Michael Simonetta retires as Perfection Fresh CEO after 40 years

AUSTRALIA – Perfection Fresh Australia has announced a major leadership change as Chief Executive Officer Michael Simonetta prepares to step down after more than 40 years with the company.

His retirement will take effect on June 30, 2025, marking the end of a career that helped shape the fresh produce industry in Australia. Rod Quin has been appointed as his successor and will officially take over as CEO on July 1, 2025.

Simonetta’s decision to retire was part of a structured transition that began in February 2024 when he informed the company’s Board of his plans to step down within 12 to 18 months.

Despite retiring from his role as CEO, he will continue to contribute to Perfection Fresh in three key capacities—serving as a Non-Executive Director, assisting with sourcing unique fruit and vegetable genetics, and supporting the company’s international market expansion.

Reflecting on his career, Simonetta expressed his gratitude, stating that it had been an incredible experience and that he was honored by what they had achieved together.

He added that he was confident Rod Quin would continue to drive Perfection Fresh’s success and looked forward to supporting the company in his new role on the Board.

He also acknowledged the many people he wanted to thank, including his colleagues, team, the Board, investors, growers, valued customers, and his family.

During his time as CEO, Simonetta played a crucial role in introducing innovative fresh produce varieties to the Australian market. Under his leadership, Perfection Fresh introduced Broccolini®—with more than 600 million bunches sold since 1999—along with Qukes® and Calypso® mangoes.

His work also led to the development of Australia’s largest glasshouse, significantly increasing access to fresh, high-quality produce.

Company Chairman Dave Chen praised Simonetta’s contributions, stating that Michael’s leadership had shaped Perfection Fresh into the company it is today.

He emphasized that Simonetta’s contributions to the industry were extraordinary and that his impact would be felt for generations.

He also noted that after an extensive global search that began when Simonetta informed the Board in February 2024 of his intention to resign, they were pleased to welcome Rod Quin, whose leadership experience would guide the company into the future.

Chen added that Michael had built a legacy that extended beyond business, as his innovation and passion had fundamentally changed how Australians experience fresh produce.

Rod Quin, who will assume the CEO role in July 2025, has extensive experience in agribusiness and food production.

He has previously held leadership positions at Fonterra, Westland Milk Products, and Roquette, bringing a strong background in strategic growth and supply chain management.

Quin stated that he was honored to join Perfection Fresh and build on Simonetta’s incredible legacy. He expressed his excitement about the company’s position for future growth and his eagerness to work with the team, partners, and customers to continue delivering excellence.

As the company moves forward, it remains focused on providing high-quality branded produce and strengthening its position in both domestic and international markets.

Quin reiterated that Perfection Fresh would continue to be a strong presence in the fresh produce industry, committed to delivering great-tasting, high-quality, and unique branded produce.

He stated that their mission remained the same—making fruit and vegetables a bigger, more valued part of every diet—and that their history of innovation in varieties, branding, and farming practices would continue to shape the company’s next chapter.

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