Zac Benedict Named to Produce Business Magazine’s 40 Under Forty List

Each year, Produce Business magazine compiles a list of 40 rising entrepreneurs and leaders — from an international pool of nominees — who have shaped the produce industry in a very short time period and are paving the way for what comes next. This year, California Avocado Commission Online Marketing Director Zac Benedict was added to Produce Business magazine’s prestigious 40 under Forty Rising Stars of Produce list. He joins fellow CAC team members Dave Cruz and April Aymami in earning this honor.

In recognizing the recipients, Produce Business noted, “this year’s winners illustrate the strength and depth of the industry’s talent — and each one has demonstrated leadership growth and keen insight into building our industry.” Each of the candidates shared their key company, industry, community and personal accomplishments, as well as their future goals and aspirations with the magazine.

Zac joined the Commission in 2005 as a marketing intern and has swiftly developed into a highly respected, seasoned produce marketer. In his current position, he leads the Commission’s digital communications for its social media channels, CaliforniaAvocado.com consumer website, digital advertising campaigns and myriad custom communications designed in collaboration with CAC’s targeted consumers. During the pandemic, Zac’s insights concerning the mood of the Commission’s targeted audience helped guide CAC’s communication tone, content and cadence.

Throughout his career, Zac has secured numerous professional achievements, including being named as one of Produce Marketing Association’s Emerging Leaders in 2012 and as a PMA High-Performance Manager in 2016. He’s also served as a contributor to the Know a Farmer Panel in 2012 and for the Social Media Marketing World events in 2014 and 2015.

Further, he has played an active role in community charitable organizations including as a supporter of the Buy California Marketing Agreement and City of Hope Food Industries Circle, a participant on the Fresh Produce and Floral Council Apprentice Panel and as a Fresh Produce and Floral Council Expo Mentor of a Cal Poly student. Most recently, he and his wife, Tina, welcomed their son Bryant in July 2021.

Zac’s duly deserved recognition from Produce Business provides positive reinforcement for him and the entire Commission staff. Further, publication of the awards and the resulting media coverage showcases the achievements of the Commission and California avocado growers before a targeted industry audience. The magazine’s online distribution is 19,000 and print circulation is more than 30,000. Including pass-along distribution, total impressions may approach 75,000 impressions.