Ciranda, the leading North American provider of certified organic, non-GMO and fair-trade food ingredients, today announced that Doug Audette, a long-time food industry veteran and leader, has joined the company as its new CEO.

Audette brings to Ciranda more than 30 years of general management, sales, marketing and operational experience, primarily in food companies. He is known for building organizational cultures where company leaders can thrive while delivering exceptional business results. In his past roles, he has consistently driven organizational growth and exceeded financial commitments.

He joins Ciranda at a time of high growth for the company and its increasing leadership role in the organic food industry.

“It was essential for us to find a CEO who is not only proven at growing companies, but also a cultural fit who can align our team around a common vision,” said Victor Aspengren, chair of Ciranda’s board of directors. “Doug is known for excelling at both. We are delighted he is joining us and look forward to the positive impact his service-oriented, thoughtful and proven leadership will have on our business.”

While the bulk of Audette’s professional experience has been in leadership roles at food companies, he most recently served as President and CEO for United Hardware Distribution Company, which franchises Hardware Hank stores. While there, he executed a company turnaround that was built around a newly developed mission, vision and strategic plan. He grew sales double digits since 2019 while navigating disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“I’m excited to join Ciranda, a company that has been a true leader in the organic food movement and has much more growth potential in its future,” said Audette. “I look forward to using my experience and leadership skills for the benefit of Ciranda’s employee-owners, supply partners, and customers, working together to serve people and communities around the world.”

Ciranda is the leading North American provider and innovator of certified organic, non-GMO and fair-trade ingredients that create and inspire positive change. The company has expertise in gluten-free flours and starches; syrups and sweeteners; cocoas and chocolates; coconut products; liquid and powdered lecithins; and vegetable oils. Since 1994, Ciranda has helped grow the organic industry for the benefit of consumers, farmers and communities worldwide. The company is employee-owned and headquartered in Hudson, Wis. To learn more, please visit ciranda.com.

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