About Planet Harvest
Planet Harvest is a
Profit-for-Purpose
produce company on a mission to improve the fresh produce supply chain
Our innovative, whole harvest solutions are designed to maximize the amount of fresh produce that makes it from our nation’s farms to our communities’ tables—simply by eliminating waste, resolving inefficiencies, and seizing every opportunity to optimize within the supply chain.
Planet Harvest’s leadership team brings decades of deep experience in the agriculture, farming, dairy, and logistics industries, which has enabled us to build an extensive network of like-minded partners across the United States.
Meet Our
Leadership Team
Melissa
Melshenker Ackerman
Founder & CEO
Melissa Melshenker Ackerman is the former President of Produce Alliance, one of the country’s largest produce management, procurement, and consulting companies. During her time in this role, she spearheaded the company’s work as the USDA’s prime contractor for their Farmers to Families Food Box Program, which delivered fresh food to hungry families across the nation—and helped farmers maintain their operations—during the early and uncertain days of the Covid-19 pandemic. Her experience leading this important initiative inspired her to start Planet Harvest with a simple goal: to optimize the fresh produce supply chain and increase consumption of fresh produce.
Sarah
Baird
Chief Operating Officer
Sarah Baird is a passionate marketing and operations executive with nearly 25 years of expertise in the food industry. Her career has been marked by a deep commitment to supporting dairy farmers, where she spent nearly two decades driving initiatives that expanded access to and consumption of dairy products. Now, Sarah is channeling her experience and enthusiasm into the produce industry, focused on ensuring the next generation has access to nutrient-rich foods. She is eager to forge and grow strategic partnerships that fuel innovation across the supply chain, while championing the sustainable benefits of consuming the “whole harvest.”
Cagney
Kobrin
VP of Supply Chain
Cagney Kobrin is the VP of Supply Chain at Planet Harvest, with nearly 15 years of experience in the agricultural and food rescue sectors. Starting his career in non-profits, Cagney has always been driven by a passion for giving back. Over the years, he’s built strong relationships with growers across the country and is known for his ability to consistently hit targets. A natural communicator, Cagney focuses on strategic partnerships that lead to impressive results. Whether it’s taking on new projects or finding innovative ways to enhance the supply chain, Cagney is committed to making a positive impact.
Katie
O’Connor-Zeno
VP of Produce Marketing
Katie O’Connor-Zeno is a dynamic marketing leader with a deep-rooted passion for the produce industry. With over a decade of experience, she has worked hand-in-hand with growers, packers, and retailers to bring innovative, high-quality products to market. From developing go-to-market strategies to building brand stories that resonate, Katie thrives on creating connections between consumers and the fresh produce they love. She is driven by a commitment to sustainability, industry innovation, and ensuring that more people have access to delicious, responsibly grown fruits and vegetables.
Let’s Improve the Supply Chain Together
We’re always looking for like-minded partners and allies to help us reduce waste and resolve inefficiencies in the fresh produce supply chain. Get in touch if you’re ready to join forces!