Oppy names Kelsey Van Lissum Director of Marketing as Karin Gardner retires
After nearly three-and-a-half decades shaping Oppy’s voice and reputation across the produce industry, Vice President of Marketing Karin Gardner is retiring June 30, passing the torch to newly appointed Director of Marketing Kelsey Van Lissum.
Van Lissum officially stepped into the role March 1, succeeding Gardner after a decade of progressive leadership within the company's marketing team.
“Karin is our Ironman,” said Chief Marketing Officer and Senior Vice President of Categories James Milne. “From starting her career on Seattle’s Pier 90 in 1992 to becoming one of the most respected communicators in fresh produce, Karin fundamentally changed how Oppy was seen across the trade.”
35 years shaping Oppy's voice
Gardner joined Oppy as its first communications specialist in Seattle and went on to serve in a series of increasingly senior leadership positions. Throughout her career, she became known as a polished and thoughtful communicator whose influence extended far beyond the company.
She was named to Produce Business magazine’s inaugural 40 Under 40 class and The Packer 25, while also serving as marketing communications chairperson for the Produce for Better Health Foundation. Widely respected for her storytelling abilities and strategic insight, Gardner helped position the company as one of the produce industry’s most recognizable and trusted brands.
“Because of her immense capabilities as a communicator, Karin became a trusted advisor not only to me, but to generations of leaders across Oppy,” Milne said. “She approached every message with care, wisdom and authenticity, and that influence will continue to shape our business long after her retirement.”
A new era at the company
As Gardner prepares to retire, the firm's marketing leadership transitions to Van Lissum, whose career at the firm began in 2015 as the company’s first social media coordinator. Working closely alongside Gardner, she steadily expanded her role and responsibilities while helping modernize the company's communications strategy and strengthen its voice across digital and trade media channels.
“Kelsey grew up professionally under Karin’s wing. Her journey reflects both her talent and her dedication to this business. She understands the importance of relationships, authentic storytelling and evolving how we communicate in a changing world,” said President and COO David Smith.
Committed to leadership development, Van Lissum participated in CPMA’s Passion for Produce program in 2018, completed Stanford University’s Crisis Management for Leaders program in 2023, and graduated from IFPA’s Emerging Leaders Program in 2024. She was also recognized as a 2023 Packer 25 honoree and named among AndNowUKnow’s 2022 Mentors in the Making. In her new role, Van Lissum will oversee the firm's marketing team.
“While Karin leaves behind an extraordinary legacy, we’re equally excited about the future under Kelsey’s leadership,” Smith said. “She brings energy, creativity and a fresh perspective to our marketing organization while staying deeply connected to the values and relationships that define the company.”
*All images courtesy of Oppy.
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