Gerard Odell, Jr.
Asheville
Summary
Qualified [Desired Position] with solid background in agricultural consulting. Demonstrated success in optimizing crop yields through innovative techniques and strategic planning. Proven ability to implement sustainable practices and enhance soil health.
Agricultural consultant with proven expertise in crop management, soil health, and sustainable farming practices. Known for strong collaboration skills and delivering measurable results. Adaptable to changing needs, with focus on optimizing agricultural productivity and resource efficiency. Recognized for effective problem-solving, strategic planning, and excellent communication abilities.
Overview
40
40
years of professional experience
Work History
Agricultural Consultant
Self-employeed
08.2019 - Current
- Advised farmers on crop selection and sustainable practices to enhance yield and profitability.
- Conducted soil assessments and analyzed data to recommend appropriate fertilizers and amendments.
- Developed customized management plans to address specific agricultural challenges faced by clients.
Chief Farming Officer
Lipman Family Farms
05.2005 - 08.2019
Managed all farming, packing, and tomato breeding operations for the largest fresh market tomato grower in the U.S.
Developed tomato farming operations with Mexican partners in Sinaloa and Jalisco states
Established 1,000 acre potato farming and packing operation in south Florida
Established tomato farming and packing operations in California
Packing Operations Manager
Sun Pacific Shippers
05.2003 - 05.2005
Management of all citrus and kiwi packing operations as well as tomato packing and sales
Managed startup of 450,000 sq ft clementine packinghouse
Comprehensive rebuild of tomato packing machinery
Director of Eastern Operations
Gargiulo, Inc.
05.1996 - 05.2003
Managed all tomato farming and packing operations in Florida, Virginia, and Puerto Rico
General Manager
Beefstake Tomato Growers
02.1991 - 05.1996
Managed all tomato farming and packing operations for North Florida and Puerto Rico
Farm Manager
South Coast Produce
05.1986 - 01.1991
Developed and managed 650 acre fresh market tomato farm for export to the U.S. mainland and local island market
Education
Master of Science - Horticulture Science
University of Florida
Gainesville, Florida, FL05-1986
Bachelor of Arts - Psychology
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, MD05-1970
Skills
- Agribusiness development
- Food safety regulations
- Hybrid selection
- Sustainable farming practices
- Nutrient management
- Pest control strategies
- Soil science
- Irrigation planning
- Farm business management
- Spanish fluency
- Water management
- Fertilizer application
Affiliations
Florida Tomato Growers Association - Board Member 1996 to 2018
South Florida Potato Growers Association - Board Member 2008 to 2013
Languages
Spanish
Full Professional
English
Native or Bilingual
Timeline
Agricultural Consultant
Self-employeed
08.2019 - Current
Chief Farming Officer
Lipman Family Farms
05.2005 - 08.2019
Packing Operations Manager
Sun Pacific Shippers
05.2003 - 05.2005
Director of Eastern Operations
Gargiulo, Inc.
05.1996 - 05.2003
General Manager
Beefstake Tomato Growers
02.1991 - 05.1996
Farm Manager
South Coast Produce
05.1986 - 01.1991
Master of Science - Horticulture Science
University of Florida
Bachelor of Arts - Psychology
Johns Hopkins University