Eco Farms is poised for a significant leadership transition as it names Jim Leach its next president, effective November 16, 2026.
This announcement follows founder and current president Steve Taft’s decision to retire on June 1, 2027, marking the end of an era for the company he co-founded in 1972.
Taft has been instrumental in transforming Eco Farms from a small California-based operation into a major player in the avocado industry, with partnerships across California, Mexico, Chile, Colombia, and Peru.
Under Taft’s leadership, Eco Farms has become a pioneer in the avocado category, notably as the first company to grow and market organic avocados in the United States.
Since its partnership with Oppy in 2020, Eco Farms has further expanded its reach, capabilities, and customer base across North America.
- Jim Leach appointed as president of Eco Farms, effective November 16, 2026.
- Steve Taft retiring on June 1, 2027, after co-founding Eco Farms in 1972.
- Under Taft, Eco Farms pioneered organic avocados in the U.S.
- Partnerships expanded in North America since collaboration with Oppy in 2020.
- John Anderson expresses optimism for future leadership under Jim Leach.
This collaboration was enhanced in 2022 with a partnership with Avoworks, aimed at ensuring consistent and reliable avocado supplies.
Taft expressed mixed emotions about his impending retirement but emphasized his confidence in the future leadership under Leach.
He stated that Eco Farms has been an “enormous part” of his life for over 50 years and that Leach’s energy and understanding of both grower and customer aspects make him a great fit for the role.
Jim Leach, who is currently the director of foodservice and Southwest sales at Oppy, brings a wealth of experience to his new role.
Having joined Oppy in 2016, Leach has gained recognition for his ability to build strong customer relationships and develop strategic growth opportunities.
Raised in California’s Salinas Valley, Leach is returning to his home state to lead Eco Farms into its next phase of growth.
He expressed his excitement about the opportunity to succeed an industry icon like Taft and looks forward to learning from him during the transition.
Leach emphasized that the company is exceptionally well-positioned for continued growth, building on the strong foundation established by Taft and the Eco Farms team.
As Eco Farms prepares for this leadership change, the company continues to leverage its vertically integrated supply network, which includes over 700 acres of California groves.
David Smith, President and Chief Operating Officer, acknowledged Taft’s remarkable contributions to the avocado industry and expressed excitement for the future under Leach’s leadership.
Smith noted that Leach’s combination of commercial expertise and appreciation for grower relationships make him well-suited to guide Eco Farms through its new era.
Chairman, CEO, and Managing Partner John Anderson also expressed gratitude for Taft’s extraordinary contributions and optimism for what lies ahead with Leach at the helm.
With a history of innovation and strong partnerships, Eco Farms is poised to continue its growth trajectory and maintain its position as a leader in the avocado market.
