As Rockit Global continues its strategic growth into 2025 and beyond, the snack-sized apple company has announced key transitions within its global senior leadership team with the establishment of two new roles – General Manager China and General Manager Global Markets.
Mark Pay has been appointed as Acting General Manager of China, he will hold this role until 13 December 2024. As one of the drivers behind Rockit's success over the past eight years, Mark will advance its efforts in China and the USA, while supporting a strong start into 2025.
Following this, Mark will step away from the company to pursue new challenges and ventures. His departure marks the end of an era for Rockit where his leadership, vision, and commitment have made a lasting impact.
This has also seen Regional Sales Manager, Steve Bunyan promoted to the newly established General Manager Global Markets role, responsible for sales leadership of the USA, Middle East North Africa (MENA), and Southeast Asia (SEA) markets. Steve joined Rockit in February this year from Landmark Homes, and Zespri before this where he spent 16 years in commercial management and business development roles, with a particular focus on Asia.
Rockit Global CEO, Grant McBeath says these appointments come at a key time for the business and will ensure it has the optimal structure to support its teams, customers, and growers as it gears up for strong export volumes and continued year-round supply from New Zealand over the coming years.
"Mark has made an incredible impact at Rockit over the past eight years, building a strong network focused on customer service. His innovative vision for selling Rockit as an FMCG product, rather than a commodity, has unlocked new opportunities and taken the brand into channels that fresh apples have never been before – such as the convenience channel. His influence on our team and dedication to the brand has been central to the success of the business," says Grant.
Mark's efforts have contributed to sales growth and expansion of Rockit's market share globally. This includes expanding the sales team from one (himself) in 2017, to a global team of 21 spread across eight markets in 2024.
"Mark's huge passion for the brand and focus on the wider team has been a key part of Rockit's ongoing success," Grant adds. "We also congratulate Steve on his promotion, whose strong leadership capabilities and commercial skills will be critical in leading the USA, MENA, and SEA markets for sales and marketing, while supporting the strong growth that is projected over the next five years," says Grant. Recruitment is currently underway for the permanent General Manager China position as the snack-sized apple company continues to take on the world, one small bite at a time.
For more information:
Anna Murray
Rockit Global
Tel +64 27 587 0523
Email: [email protected]
www.rockitapple.com