Key Takeaways:
- Election of New Board Members: Matt Bastone, Marylu Ramirez, and Gary Thiara have been elected to UnitedAg’s Board of Directors, showcasing a commitment to diverse skills and expertise.
- Backgrounds of New Members: The new members bring experience from various agricultural sectors, including finance, human resources, and managing diversified farming operations.
- UnitedAg’s Strategic Direction: Including these professionals is expected to contribute significantly to UnitedAg’s strategic direction and governance.
- UnitedAg’s Mission and Services: UnitedAg represents over 1,000 member companies, offering services in employee benefits, legislative advocacy, and health regulation compliance.
- Commitment to the Agriculture Sector: The newly formed Board underscores UnitedAg’s dedication to advancing the interests and wellbeing of agricultural workers in California and Arizona.
UnitedAg has recently announced the addition of three distinguished professionals to its Board of Directors. These new members, elected by regular members, are recognized for their outstanding leadership and expertise in their respective fields.
Introduction of New Board Members
UnitedAg’s recent election has brought in three professionals esteemed in their fields:
- Matt Bastone, CFO of Plantel Nurseries, brings over 18 years of experience in finance, accounting, and operations.
- Marylu Ramirez, HR Manager at GoodFarms, has 29 years of experience in the agricultural sector, focusing on human resource compliance and data quality improvement.
- Gary Thiara, President & CEO of Empire Farming Company, oversees a diversified farming operation and has extensive experience in organizational leadership.
These individuals were chosen for their unique skills and backgrounds, which are expected to benefit significantly UnitedAg’s strategic endeavors and governance.
Enhanced Board Composition
The 2024/25 Board of Directors at UnitedAg now includes a diverse group of professionals, each with unique skills and experiences. This group comprises individuals from various segments of the agriculture industry, ensuring a well-rounded and comprehensive approach to the organization’s decision-making and strategic planning.
More on the New Members
Matt Bastone
Matt Bastone’s career spans significant roles, including his work with Deloitte and DAOU Vineyards. His expertise in finance and operations and his experience managing a ceramic tile factory in Mexico provide a robust foundation for his role at UnitedAg.
Marylu Ramirez
Marylu Ramirez has a dedicated career in agriculture, focusing on human resources and compliance. Her educational background in accounting and human resources and her extensive industry experience make her an invaluable addition to the Board.
Gary Thiara
Gary Thiara’s leadership roles, including his tenure at Sunsweet Growers Inc. and the California Prune Board, and his academic credentials contribute significantly to his expertise in managing diverse agricultural operations.
About UnitedAg
Established in 1980, UnitedAg has been a cornerstone in supporting the agricultural community. Its services range from helping members with employee benefits to advocating for their interests with lawmakers. With a broad network of offices and wellness centers, UnitedAg is pivotal in supporting over 55,000 agricultural workers in California and Arizona.
Adding Matt Bastone, Marylu Ramirez, and Gary Thiara to UnitedAg’s Board of Directors is a significant step in enhancing the organization’s leadership and expertise. Their collective experience and dedication are poised to contribute significantly to UnitedAg’s ongoing mission to advance the interests and wellbeing of those in the agricultural sector.
Image proided by UnitedAg
