Colombia Avocado Board announces 2026–2027 leadership to strengthen industry collaboration

The Colombia Avocado Board (CAB) announced its 2026–2027 Board of Directors following its Annual Meeting held October 14 in Orlando, Florida. The nine-member Board includes newly elected and returning directors representing Colombia's avocado exporters and U.S. importers, bringing together industry expertise to support the continued development of Avocados from Colombia in the US market.

CAB's Board of Directors plays an integral role in providing strategic guidance, oversight, and direction for the organization's efforts to strengthen Colombia's presence across U.S. retail and foodservice channels. Directors generally serve two-year terms and may be re-elected to continue serving in subsequent terms.

Meet the experts leading Colombia Avocado Board

Mauricio Moranth from Colombia Avocado Board

Newly elected to the Board of Directors for the 2026–2027 term:

• Mauricio Moranth, CAB Exporter Director from Montana Fruits
• Juan Monsalve, CAB Importer Director from LGS Specialty Sales

Re-elected to serve through 2028:

• Kellen Newhouse, CAB Chair and Importer Director from West Pak Avocado
• Ricardo Uribe, CAB Vice Chair and Exporter Director from Cartama
• Katheryn Mejia, CAB Director from Corpohass

Elected to fill a vacant seat:

• Dustin Hahn, CAB Importer Director from Naturipe Avocados

Juan Monsalve from Colombia Avocado Board

Dustin Hahn was elected by the importer association members to fill a vacant seat and will serve the remaining year of the term, through 2027.

• Continuing Board Members serving through 2027:
• Galen Johnson, CAB Secretary and Importer Director from Mission Produce
• Sergio Plata, CAB Treasurer and Exporter Director from Baika Fruit
• Ricardo Mejia, CAB Exporter Director from Fruty Green

Together, the Board represents a broad range of perspectives across the avocado supply chain, helping guide CAB's initiatives to expand market opportunities, build retailer relationships, and increase awareness of Colombian Hass avocados among U.S. consumers.

“We are pleased to welcome Mauricio Moranth and Juan Monsalve to the Colombia Avocado Board,” said Manuel Michel, Managing Director of the Colombia Avocado Board. “Both bring valuable industry perspectives and expertise that will complement the experience of our returning directors. As Colombia continues to strengthen its presence in the U.S. market, this collective leadership will be instrumental in fostering industry collaboration, building stronger trade partnerships, and creating new opportunities for Avocados from Colombia.”

As Colombia's Hass avocado industry continues to evolve, CAB remains focused on strengthening partnerships with importers, retailers, and foodservice operators while showcasing the quality, consistency, and year-round availability of Avocados from Colombia. With the guidance of its Board of Directors, CAB looks forward to advancing these efforts and supporting the industry's continued success.

*All images courtesy of the Colombia Avocado Board

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