Les Mallard, vice president sales of Fyffes North America Inc., has been named the 2025 Canadian Produce Marketing Association (CPMA) Lifetime Achievement Award recipient, recognizing his dedication, leadership, and service to the produce industry over a 38-year career.
Growing up in Prince Edward Island, Mallard's professional journey began with a degree in Economics from the University of Prince Edward Island, setting the foundation for a career that would have a significant impact on the Canadian produce sector. Mallard worked with Chiquita Brands from 1987 to 2017 in various key roles, ultimately serving as country manager for Canada. Upon his retirement from Chiquita, he transitioned to a consulting role before joining Fyffes North America in 2018 as vice president of sales, Canada.
Mallard's contributions extend beyond his corporate roles. He has been a volunteer and leader within the CPMA, beginning with his service as entertainment chair for the 1998 CPMA Convention in Halifax. He played an instrumental role in establishing the Mary Fitzgerald Award, which later evolved into the CPMA Young Professional Award. Throughout his career, Mallard has served on several CPMA committees, including the Marketing, Membership, and Education Committees.
© CPMALes Mallard
In 2014, Mallard expanded his role with CPMA, becoming chair of the Membership Committee before entering the Executive Committee. His leadership culminated in his term as CPMA Chair in 2019, where he focused on several key mandates, including Innovation and Trade. In recognition of his work, Mallard was named Produce Person of the Year in 2019.
Mallard continues to serve on the Past Chair Council and is an active member of CPMA's Passion for Produce Mentor and Leadership Committees. His commitment to the industry and passion for mentorship are just some of the qualities that have made him an invaluable asset to the produce community.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Mallard considers his greatest achievement to be his family. He is proud to be married to Susan, and together, they have two children, Matthew (21) and Sarah (19). Mallard is also an avid sports enthusiast, having coached hockey and basketball, and continues to play basketball and golf.
Mallard's career has been defined by a commitment to excellence, innovation, and community service. His leadership and support for the produce industry have earned him the admiration of his peers, and this Lifetime Achievement Award is a fitting recognition of his decades of dedication.
The CPMA extends its warm congratulations to Mallard on this honor and thanks him for his lifelong contributions to the Canadian produce industry. He will be presented with this award alongside other industry members and businesses at the 2025 CPMA Convention and Trade Show's Awards Brunch on Thursday, April 10, in Montreal.
Learn more about the history of the CPMA Lifetime Achievement Award and see previous winners here.
For more information:
Candace Knights
CPMA
cknights@cpma.ca
https://cpma.ca/