Almond Board of California retains search firm to aid 2023 CEO transition

The Almond Board of California retained Russell Reynolds Associates, a global executive search and leadership advisory firm, as the exclusive search firm to aid the transition to a new president and CEO.

Current President and CEO Richard Waycott informed the Almond Board of California (ABC) Board of Directors that after 21 years he plans to step away from his ABC responsibilities at the end of 2023 to pursue other interests.

An ABC search committee led by Board Chair Alexi Rodriguez retained Russell Reynolds Associates to help in the national CEO search. The firm has more than 50 years of experience working with public, private and nonprofit organizations in the U.S. and around the globe.

Individuals interested in applying are invited to submit a curriculum vitae and brief explanation of interest in electronic form to almondboard@russellreynolds.com. Inquiries and nominations should also be sent to that email address.

“This is an exceptional leadership opportunity for the right executive to serve the more than 7,600 growers and 100-plus handlers who have made almonds one of California’s largest crops,” Rodriguez said. “We are excited to see where our search will lead.”

Almond Board of California

The Almond Board of California promotes natural, wholesome and quality almonds through leadership in strategic market development, innovative research and accelerated adoption of industry best practices on behalf of the more than 7,600 almond farmers and processors in California, most of whom are multi-generational family operations. The Almond Board of California is a non-profit organization that administers a grower-enacted Federal Marketing Order under the supervision of the U.S. Department of Agriculture. It was established in 1950 and is based in Modesto, California. For more about the Almond Board or California almonds, visit Almonds.com.