Werner succeeds interim CEO Harry Debney, who will step down today.
After serving as chief operating officer for over two years, Werner was promoted to deputy CEO last July. Costa Group had stated that Debney, who took over as interim CEO in September 2022, would be focusing on the potential acquisition process.
Costa Group had been in discussions to sell the business to private-equity firm Paine Schwartz Partners, with a consortium led by them ultimately making an accepted bid.
The recent acquisition involved collaboration from fruit grower Driscoll’s, Canada’s British Columbia Investment Management Corp., and Paine Schwartz Partners.
Werner emphasized the importance of investing in innovation to boost competitive advantages and enhance product offerings in the fresh produce industry. He also highlighted the significance of Costa’s employees and its position as an employer of choice in the industry.
