Paul G. Bennett — Director

Mr. Bennett has over 30 years of executive experience in a variety of products and markets focused on international agribusiness. His domestic and international work includes integrated farming operations, producing and marketing fresh and processed foods, and the development, production, and marketing of vegetable and flower genetics. He has experience with strategic planning, start-ups, acquisitions, and divestitures. Mr Bennett’s primary focus at Verdant will be the development of new business in the fresh produce industry.

Mr. Bennett worked for Dole Food Company from 1968 to 1978 in six different countries, becoming Vice President and General Manager. From 1978 to 1983, Paul was the President of Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Corp. in Hilo, Hawaii. From 1983 to 1986, Mr. Bennett served as Group Vice President of International Air Service Company (IASCO) in Burlingame, California before returning to Hawaii to serve as President and COO for Hawaiian Holiday Macadamia Nut Company for three years. In 1989, Paul became President and CEO of California Ammonia Co. (CALAMCO). In 1993, Paul became President and CEO of Naturipe Berry Growers, based in Watsonville, California. In 1996, Mr. Bennett became the Vice President of Technical Services for Monterey Mushrooms. Most recently, Mr. Bennett served as the President and CEO of Sakata Seed America from 1997 to 2009.

Mr. Bennett holds a BS degree from Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois and an MBA from Stanford University in California. He is bilingual in English and Spanish.

7 Crest Road
Lafayette, CA 95037 USA

Tel: +1 (888) 359 8470 ext. 8844
Cell: +1 (408) 921 6868
paulbennett@verdantpartners.com