Categories: California Business NewsCalifornia State News

Ken Melban Named New President of California Avocado Commission

A thriving California avocado field reflecting the agricultural richness of the state.

News Summary

The California Avocado Commission has appointed Ken Melban as its new president, effective May 22, 2025. Melban brings over a decade of experience with the commission and a strong commitment to advocating for California avocado growers. His leadership has seen significant initiatives, including preventing harmful pests and expanding the avocado export program. As he steps into this role, Melban’s track record and understanding of the agricultural landscape promise to enhance both domestic and international market opportunities for California avocados.

California – The California Avocado Commission (CAC) board of directors has promoted Ken Melban to the position of president, effective May 22, 2025. Melban’s extensive experience with the commission and his commitment to the interests of California avocado growers make him a fitting choice for this leadership role.

Melban initially joined the CAC in 2011, serving as the director of issues management. His leadership skills and industry knowledge quickly earned him a promotion to vice president of industry affairs in 2015. Most recently, he has held the position of vice president of industry affairs and operations, and co-executive leader of the organization since late 2023.

Jason Cole, chair of the CAC board, has acknowledged Melban’s valuable contributions to the financial and administrative operations of the commission as well as its industry affairs programs. His deep understanding of the challenges faced by California avocado growers and his passion for advocating their interests have set the foundation for his approach to leadership.

Throughout his tenure at CAC, Melban has made notable strides in addressing several key issues. He has actively worked with the U.S. government to prevent harmful pests from entering the country through imported avocados, ensuring the integrity of California’s avocado crops. His commitment to grower welfare is highlighted by his advocacy efforts following catastrophic fires that have plagued the region. By identifying and addressing the challenges faced by growers, Melban has proven himself to be a resilient leader during tough situations.

A significant point of Melban’s leadership has been his role in developing and adopting Good Agricultural Practices (GAP), which have become essential for maintaining the quality and safety of California avocados. His initiative in expanding the California avocado export program is also notable; under his guidance, the commission successfully secured market access to China in 2020 after nine years of negotiations. This is a remarkable achievement that has broadened market opportunities for California avocado producers.

Before his tenure at CAC, Melban accumulated over two decades of experience in produce leadership. He has collaborated with various California commodity boards and the National Grape & Wine Initiative, enhancing his understanding of the agricultural landscape in California. His background in leadership and organizational studies includes a Bachelor of Arts and a Master’s degree from Fresno Pacific University.

In addition to his professional career, Melban has shown commitment to community service, actively participating in organizations that promote agricultural advancement and climate adaption. His contributions to the California Department of Food and Agriculture’s Climate Change Adaptation Consortium and involvement with the Ventura AG Futures Alliance further showcase his dedication to the agricultural community.

As Ken Melban prepares to take on his new role as president of the California Avocado Commission, his proven track record of leadership and advocacy is expected to drive positive change and growth within the organization. With a vision that recognizes and capitalizes on new opportunities, he aims to enhance the position of California avocados in both domestic and international markets.