Wadih J. Khayat

Source: Driscoll’s

Wadih J Khayat has joined the Californian fresh berry giant, overseeing its global finance, technology and strategy

Driscoll’s has appointed a new chief financial officer.

Wadih J Khayat has joined the Californian fresh berry giant as its new CFO, overseeing its global finance, technology and strategy.

He will work with regional and functional leaders to ensure disciplined capital deployment and the long-term success of the company’s global network of independent growers.

“Wadih joins Driscoll’s at an important moment for our company,” said Driscoll’s CEO Soren Bjorn. “As we prepare to launch our next long-term strategic plan, his strategic financial expertise, disciplined execution and caring leadership will strengthen our financial foundation, support our global teams and position us for the future.”

Khayat previously spent over two decades at Coca-Cola, having been the senior vice president and CFO for its European arm most recently. Prior to that he was CFO for the Asia Pacific Group and CFO and head of strategy for Coca-Cola Global Ventures at the company’s global headquarters in Atlanta.

He began his career in audit at Ernst & Young and speaks English, French and Arabic fluently.

“Driscoll’s has a century-long legacy of exceptional berries, strong partnerships with growers and a deep commitment to the communities where we live and work,” Khayat said. “That legacy drew me to the company, and it’s a responsibility I take seriously.”

The company works with more than 900 independent growers globally, located in 20 countries. Its berries are sold in more than 40 countries across North America, Australia, Europe and China.

Khayat added: “I was especially struck by the strength of the brand, the trust it has earned globally and the unique network of independent growers and teams delivering berries every day.”