Perfection Fresh Australia Group Chairman, Dave Chen, today announced the retirement of Chief Executive Officer Michael Simonetta and the appointment of Rod Quin as his successor.
After more than 40 years of transformative leadership, Michael Simonetta will retire as CEO on 30 June 2025, having played a pivotal role in shaping both Perfection Fresh and Australia's fresh produce industry.
His retirement is part of a carefully planned transition process that started in February 2024, when Michael informed the Board of his intention to resign as CEO within 12–18 months, depending on the appointment of a successor.
Michael will continue to be part of Perfection Fresh through three key roles. He will become a Non-Executive Director on the Board, supporting the company's strategic direction. Additionally, he will play a crucial role in assisting the new CEO with the search and sourcing of new, unique vegetable and fruit genetics. Michael will also collaborate with the CEO in the development and expansion of our international market presence, focusing on growing our unique brands and varieties.
During his tenure, Michael introduced game-changing products like Broccolini® to Australia (over 600 million bunches sold since 1999), Qukes®, and Calypso® mangoes, developed the country's largest glasshouse, and significantly expanded Australians' access to high-quality fresh produce. His leadership has been instrumental in driving innovation, sustainable practices, and industry growth.
To ensure a seamless transition, Rod Quin will join Perfection Fresh as the incoming CEO on 5 May 2025 and assume the CEO role on 1 July 2025. Rod brings extensive global experience in agribusiness and food production, having held leadership roles at Fonterra, Westland Milk Products, and Roquette. His expertise in strategic growth, innovation, and supply chain leadership will further strengthen Perfection Fresh's position as a market leader.
Dave Chen, Chairman of Perfection Fresh, said: "Michael's visionary leadership has shaped Perfection Fresh into the company it is today. His contributions to the industry are extraordinary, and his impact will be felt for generations. After an extensive global search that began when Michael informed the Board in February 2024 of his intention to resign, we are very pleased to welcome Rod Quin, whose exceptional leadership experience will guide us into the future. Michael has built a legacy that extends beyond business—his innovation and passion have fundamentally changed how Australians experience fresh produce."
Michael Simonetta reflected on his career, saying: "It has been an incredible journey, and I am immensely honored by what we have achieved together. I am confident that Rod will continue to drive Perfection Fresh's success, and I look forward to supporting the company in my new role on the Board. There are so many people I want to thank—my colleagues, my team, the Board, our investors, the growers we work with, our valued customers, and of course, my beloved family."
Rod Quin added: "I am honored to join Perfection Fresh and build on Michael's incredible legacy. The company is uniquely positioned for future growth, and I look forward to working with the team, our partners, and customers to continue delivering excellence."
"Perfection Fresh will remain a driving force in the fresh produce industry, with an unwavering commitment to delivering great-tasting, high-quality, and unique, branded produce. Our mission remains the same—making the goodness of fruit and vegetables a bigger, more loved part of every diet. Our legacy of innovation—across varieties, branding, and farming practices—will continue to define our next chapter."
For more information:
Joseph Younes
Perfection Fresh
Tel: +61 416 619 500
joseph.younes@perfection.com.au