Produce Quiz Winner: DAVID RADTKE

General Manager
Veg-Land, Inc.
Fullerton, CA

Before David Radtke’s more than two decades in produce, he worked for the county probation department. “We like to joke that my years there prepped me for the fast-moving, ever-changing, chaotic work that produce can be,” he says.

A typical day for Radtke starts with walking the Veg-Land facility, where he is general manager, greeting team members, and getting a view of any issues or concerns. He spends the rest of his day looking for anything that is out of place or that needs attention; checking emails; reviewing daily receiving, loadings, production orders; and any other administrative work.

Radtke says the things he appreciates most about his career are the people he works with, the customers and relationships he has built, and the unpredictability of the industry. “I am energized by the opportunity to solve complex problems for our customers, and ultimately, the consumers who purchase these products. I find great satisfaction in building successful cohesive teams that allow for team members to be successful and grow professionally,” he says.

Radtke says during his produce career, “I have been blessed to work with a lot of great people and be a part of great teams, each one giving me another set of tools to be successful today.”

When he isn’t working at Veg-Land, you may find him in the kitchen. “My favorite thing to do for the people in my life is to cook. I find great comfort and satisfaction in preparing food for the people I love.”

He also has an active volunteer life with Lions Clubs International and enjoys traveling.

He values Produce Business, because “the articles and stories are current, informative and relevant. I enjoy seeing the new trends and innovations in the produce industry. I always find stories that are interesting and informative for me and my career.”

As this month’s winner, Radtke will receive a $200 Amazon gift card.