Meet the Team

H.O. “Chip” Walker III joined PRO*ACT in September 2020 as President and CEO with over 25 years of experience in foodservice and retail distribution on all sides of the supply chain, including positions in sales, operations, and most recently as a Chief Executive Officer for a foodservice distribution cooperative.

Growing up in rural Mississippi, Chip remembers learning the importance of hard work alongside his grandfather on the family farm, lessons that eventually brought him to a leadership position at PRO*ACT.

Chip enjoys golfing, traveling, and dining out with his wife Tina, and the occasional FaceTime calls from his two grown daughters (hint hint).

Brian Kane joined PRO*ACT in July 2008 as Vice President of Client Services and was promoted to Chief Operating Officer in January 2013. Brian has more than 15 years experience in the foodservice industry, holding positions of increasing responsibility related to category management, commodity purchasing, and the management of broadline and produce distribution. His additional experience includes restaurant openings, food costing, commodity contracting, and menu development.

As COO he is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the company with Procurement, Client Services, Retail, Marketing, Business Development, and Food Safety all under his leadership.

Brian's hobbies include golfing and family time, including his son's soccer games and daughter's gymnastics.

Lloyd is responsible for developing initiatives, strategies, and programs that impact the distribution network of PRO*ACT.

He was part of the PRO*ACT team from 1994 to 1997 as the Director of Business Development. After working in the industry for five years in a consulting capacity, Lloyd returned to PRO*ACT in 2002 to the position of Vice President of Business Development.

A 51-year industry veteran, Lloyd spent 30 years with G&G Produce Company in Los Angeles. He has a BA in Economics from the University of Southern California.

When he is away from the office, Lloyd can be found golfing, enjoying family time with his four grandchildren and shopping at Costco!

Dave Peterson joined PRO*ACT in March of 2016. Dave is responsible for developing, implementing and managing the PRO*ACT Sales Strategy and Sales Team. Dave’s career in fresh produce sales, marketing, procurement and distribution spans thirty five plus years. Dave has been in similar executive roles with Fresh Express, Sysco Foods, Sun World International and Kingston Fresh Marketing.
Dave and his wife Angie reside in Salinas.

When he is away from the office Dave enjoys, golf, motorcycles, travel and time with family.

Jeff maintains an exceptional network throughout the global fresh produce supply chain. His current focus is growing sales within retail, foodservice, convenience stores and emerging channels. Jeff specializes in navigating complex issues, targeting emerging markets to drive new channel development for a wide spectrum of stakeholders. With over 20 years experience in building strong, profitable relationships Jeff is an invaluable member of the PRO*ACT team.

Brian Denton joined PRO*ACT in 2014 with over 10 years experience leading marketing teams serving the produce, technology, automotive and non-profit sectors.

As Director of Marketing, Brian is responsible for leading the marketing team, setting strategic marketing direction, while working to promote PRO*ACT, our suppliers and distributors through key communication initiatives.

Brian enjoys spending time with his family, and assisting non-profit communication endeavors.

Michael Jantschke joined PRO*ACT in 2007 with more than 20 years of food safety, sanitation, and quality experience. Prior to PRO*ACT, Michael provided training and education, auditing, and technical assistance to a number of companies through his own food consulting business. His long tenure with the Grocery Manufacturers/Food Products Association (formerly known as the National Food Processors Association), culminated with a position as a senior-level scientist leading a group that provided FPA member companies with expert advice in food safety, microbiology and regulatory compliance. Prior experience also includes positions with Dole Packaged Foods and Dole Thailand Ltd.

Michael’s role is to strengthen PRO*ACT’s compliance requirements with its suppliers and distributors as well as work closely with PRO*ACT customers and industry trade associations to develop collaborative approaches on issues of food safety and regulatory compliance.

Michael holds a BS in Biology from Philipps University, Marburg, Germany, a MS in Food Technology and Science from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, and has completed graduate-level course work in International Agricultural Development at U.C. Davis.

Michael enjoys following international politics in his spare time.

Denise joined Pro*Act in 1999 to provide administrative support in the executive offices, working with the President/CEO and CFO to coordinate and communicate the strategy, development, and implementation of growth initiatives. She provides direct support to our governing boards and acts as a recording secretary for Pro*Act and related entities. Adams’ previous experience includes sales, marketing, and high level executive support in the software, transportation, and electronics manufacturing industries, working for both publicly and privately held companies.

Denise grew up in Seattle, lived in Los Angeles for a few years, and has resided in Salinas, CA for more than 30 years. She enjoys traveling, reading, yoga, cooking, trying new restaurants, and good food. Grocery stores and farmer’s markets are two of her favorite places, along with the southern French countryside, and anywhere her two sons, daughter-in-law, and new grandson happen to be. She is patiently waiting for This is Us to begin a new season.

Joe Piedimonte joined PRO*ACT in March 2014 as Controller with more than 15 years in various roles of financial management, from Operations Controller to Chief Financial Officer. His last position was as Controller for the grower/shipper Church Brothers, where he was responsible for the day-to-day operations of accounting for a $300 million company which included an annual audit, grower accounting, incentives, farm accounting, as well as harvesting financial analysis. Joe brings with him a track record of innovative budgeting and reporting from a diverse background that includes construction, food service and farming. He has planned and implemented many Accounting and ERP system upgrades. Joe has also earned a Wharton Certificate from the University of Pennsylvania.

As Controller for PRO*ACT he is responsible for leading the finance team as well managing banking relationships and risk management.

Joe has a BS In Management/Business Administration from St Mary’s College of Moraga (cum laude).

Joe's hobbies include mountain biking, fishing, family and food.

Joined PRO*ACT: March 1995
Years in the Industry: 25
Mike's hobbies include surfing and fishing.

Jen Chang started with PRO*ACT in 2020. She brings 14 years of experience as an HR Professional in many roles as a steward and champion of organizational performance. She has direct experience in both healthcare and finance industries, including Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, PIMCO, and Montage Health.

Dave Franza is from Philadelphia, PA and joined PROACT in February 2021 after consulting with and managing projects for Tech and Media & Entertainment companies, as Founder & President of TipLynx. Previously, Dave served NFL Films and NFL Network as CIO and VP of Production Applications where he built their IT environments, led development of TV and Digital Production systems, and managed Broadcast/IT Services at 22 Super Bowls. He’s earned a Sports Emmy, CIO Magazine’s Bold-100 award, and is a certified Project Management Professional (PMP).

Dave is a forward thinker, with an in-depth knowledge of IT, known for integrating technology, ideas, and people – with an emphasis on people. Dave is widely known as the creator of the SABER Digital Asset Management system that since 1997 has been utilized by NFL Films to manage and deliver all of the NFL footage and programming that has earned them over 125 Sports Emmy Awards.

When he’s not at the office, Dave enjoys golf, gardening, aquarium husbandry, and football - which he has coached at the HS level. Dave has three children and two grandchildren, and is married to his awesome wife, Kate, who is a teacher and coaches HS lacrosse and basketball.

Joined PRO*ACT: March 1999
Years in Industry: 19
Denise's hobbies include cooking, reading and gardening.

Joined PRO*ACT:
September
2019
Dawn enjoys spending time with family and friends, working out, reading, and traveling.

Jen Chang started with PRO*ACT in 2020. She brings 14 years of experience as an HR Professional in many roles as a steward and champion of organizational performance. She has direct experience in both healthcare and finance industries, including Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, PIMCO, and Montage Health.

Jen holds a BA from California State University, Fresno as well as three HR Certifications: PHR, SHRM-CP and RACR

A Monterey native, Jen can be found building sand castles at the beach with her three small children, hiking at one of the many local national parks, or enjoying the a delicious meal with her husband in the many locations the peninsula has to offer.

Lloyd is responsible for developing initiatives, strategies, and programs that impact the distribution network of PRO*ACT.

He was part of the PRO*ACT team from 1994 to 1997 as the Director of Business Development. After working in the industry for five years in a consulting capacity, Lloyd returned to PRO*ACT in 2002 to the position of Vice President of Business Development.

A 45-year industry veteran, Lloyd spent 30 years with G&G Produce Company in Los Angeles. He has a BA in Economics from the University of Southern California.

When he is away from the office, Lloyd can be found golfing, enjoying family time with his six grandchildren and shopping at Costco!

Jeff maintains an exceptional network throughout the global fresh produce supply chain. His current focus is growing sales within retail, foodservice, convenience stores and emerging channels. Jeff specializes in navigating complex issues, targeting emerging markets to drive new channel development for a wide spectrum of stakeholders. With over 20 years experience in building strong, profitable relationships Jeff is an invaluable member of the PRO*ACT team.

Dave Peterson joined PRO*ACT in March of 2016. Dave is responsible for developing, implementing and managing the PRO*ACT Sales Strategy and Sales Team. Dave’s career in fresh produce sales, marketing, procurement and distribution spans thirty five plus years. Dave has been in similar executive roles with Fresh Express, Sysco Foods, Sun World International and Kingston Fresh Marketing.
Dave and his wife Angie reside in Salinas.
When he is away from the office Dave enjoys, golf, motorcycles, travel and time with family.

Kristie Waters joined PRO*ACT in August 2016.
Kristie has 15 years of foodservice distribution expertise including recruitment, management, business development, operations, marketing and purchasing.
In her new role, Kristie is utilizing her experience to create “think outside the box” programs for multi-unit businesses tied to the PRO*ACT value proposition of the “One Touch” solution.
In her spare time, Kristie enjoys living an active and healthy lifestyle, travel and spending quality time with her family.

Anthony Molinaro joined PRO*ACT in January 2010 as Client Services Sales Director, and was promoted to Vice President of Client Services in June 2013. Prior to PRO*ACT, Anthony was the Senior Director Global Supply Chain & Vendor Management at Starwood Hotels, which he joined in March 2001. He held previous produce and distribution management positions with Alliant Foodservice (now US Foods) and Monteverde Produce as well as other produce specialists in the Northeast.

Anthony leads the company’s Client Services team as they continue strengthening and raising the awareness of benefits PRO*ACT brings to produce supply chain management for existing and prospective clients.

When not in the office, Anthony can be found golfing, skiing or running.

Mark Frankenberg joined the PRO*ACT team in June of 2016 as Vice President of Client Development.
Mark has 30+ years in foodservice distribution inclusive of sales and business development, customer services, warehouse operations, logistics and transportation.
In this role, Mark will be collaborating with PRO*ACT partners and colleagues to develop new multi-unit programs through a very principled and strong strategic approach.
Mark and his wife Lora live in Amelia Island, Florida.
Mark enjoys family activities, fishing, and golf.

Dan Bhada joined PRO*ACT in September 2013 as Director of Client Services in the Northeast. Prior to PRO*ACT, Dan was Director of Retail/manufacturing Sales for J. Kings Foodservice Professionals. His career also includes experience in the restaurant segment, including positions at Compass Group, Honu Restaurant Group and Romano's Macaroni Grill.

Dan is responsible for obtaining and developing new multi-unit program business along with providing value-added services to current PRO*ACT customers.

When he is away from the office he enjoys golfing, tennis, running and guitar.

Anthony Tomasic joined PRO*ACT in June 2019.
Prior to PRO*ACT Anthony worked in the produce industry for 15 years.
Anthony enjoys
spending time with his family, golfing, biking and hiking.

Joni Miller joined PRO*ACT in September 2019.
Joni has over 20+ years of foodservice including Produce.
Joni enjoys backyard BBQ's with friends, her dogs and local club organizations.

Darren Springer joined PRO*ACT in November 2008 as Director of Client Service Systems. Prior to PRO*ACT, Darren worked for Muir Copper Canyon, a PRO*ACT distribution company based in Salt Lake City, where he was most recently the Sales Director. Darren held many positions of increasing responsibility with Muir Copper Canyon in his 10 year tenure and has a well established understanding of product specifications, operational issues, and food safety programs.

Joined PRO*ACT: February 2014
Years in Industry: 5
Kurt's hobbies include cycling, skiing, scuba diving, rock climbing, mixology, haute cuisine, hiking and trail building.

Joined PRO*ACT: August 2014
Years in Industry: 6
Her hobbies include spending time with family on the Central Coast, horseback riding, hiking and country music.

Joined PRO*ACT: April 2012
Years in the Produce/Food Industry: 4
Years in Finance Industry: 4
Jillian's hobbies include reading, traveling, and baking.

Joined PRO*ACT: December 10th 2018
Ashlee enjoys spending time with my family and friends, being outdoors and traveling.

Joined PRO*ACT: May 2016
Years in Industry: 1
Jody enjoys reading, hanging at the beach with her two dogs and wonderful husband, along with volunteering in the community and spending time with family & friends.

Joined PRO*ACT: May 2019.
Years in Produce: 1
Braden enjoys road trips, attending, concerts, and barbecuing.

Joined PRO*ACT: March 2021
Years in Produce: 6
Rachel enjoys crafting, bowling, and fishing/hiking with her son and fiance.

Joe Piedimonte joined PRO*ACT in March 2014 as Controller with more than 15 years in various roles of financial management, from Operations Controller to Chief Financial Officer. His last position was as Controller for the grower/shipper Church Brothers, where he was responsible for the day-to-day operations of accounting for a $300 million company which included an annual audit, grower accounting, incentives, farm accounting, as well as harvesting financial analysis. Joe brings with him a track record of innovative budgeting and reporting from a diverse background that includes construction, food service and farming. He has planned and implemented many Accounting and ERP system upgrades. Joe has also earned a Wharton Certificate from the University of Pennsylvania.

As Controller for PRO*ACT he is responsible for leading the finance team as well managing banking relationships and risk management.

Joe has a BS In Management/Business Administration from St Mary’s College of Moraga (cum laude).

Joe's hobbies include mountain biking, fishing, family and food.

Joined PRO*ACT: January 1994
Years in the Produce/Food Industry: 20
Years in Finance Industry: 20
Katherine enjoys rubberstamping and spending time with her family.

Joined PRO*ACT: June 2000
Years in the Produce/Food Industry: 21
Years in Finance Industry: 25
Michele's hobbies include traveling, hiking with her husband and dog, cooking for family gatherings and thrift shopping/shopping with friends.

Joined PRO*ACT: May 2000
Years in the Produce/Food Industry: 13
Years in Finance Industry: 13
Susan's hobbies include family and friend time including sons' sporting events, cooking, sports photography and videography.

Joined PRO*ACT: February 2011
Years in the Produce/Food Industry: 3
Years in Finance Industry: 3
Jillian's hobbies include Salsa dancing, cooking and baking.

Joined PRO*ACT: September 2011
Years in the Produce/Food Industry: 3
Years in Finance Industry: 3
Ruth enjoys reading and bargain hunting.

Joined PRO*ACT: June 2007
Years in the Produce/Food Industry: 7
Years in Finance Industry: 8
Sam enjoys spending time with family, playing baseball and cooking.

Joined PRO*ACT: July 2009
Years in the Produce/Food Industry: 11
Years in Finance Industry: 17
Yolanda's hobbies include reading, volunteer at the Renaissance Faire and cross stitch.

Joined PRO*ACT: September 2015
Years in the Produce/Food Industry: 10
Years in Finance Industry: 20
Stephanie's hobbies include woodworking, painting, music and spending time with her family.

Joined PRO*ACT:
December, 2019
Years in Produce industry: 2 years
Years in Finance Industry: 18 Years
Edith enjoys walking on the beach with family and cooking Filipino dishes for family and close relatives.

Joined PRO*ACT:
November 5, 2018
Years in Produce industry: 3 months
Rachelle enjoys working out
cooking and baking guiltless, natural foods
Learning programming, online day trading and taking long drives.

Michael Jantschke joined PRO*ACT in 2007 with more than 20 years of food safety, sanitation, and quality experience. Prior to PRO*ACT, Michael provided training and education, auditing, and technical assistance to a number of companies through his own food consulting business. His long tenure with the Grocery Manufacturers/Food Products Association (formerly known as the National Food Processors Association), culminated with a position as a senior-level scientist leading a group that provided FPA member companies with expert advice in food safety, microbiology and regulatory compliance. Prior experience also includes positions with Dole Packaged Foods and Dole Thailand Ltd.

Michael’s role is to strengthen PRO*ACT’s compliance requirements with its suppliers and distributors as well as work closely with PRO*ACT end-user customers and industry trade associations to develop collaborative approaches on issues of food safety and regulatory compliance.

Michael holds a B.S. in Biology from Philipps University, Marburg, Germany, a M.S. in Food Technology and Science from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, and has completed graduate-level course work in International Agricultural Development at U.C. Davis.

Michael enjoys following international politics in his spare time.

Joined PRO*ACT: April 1997
Years in Industry: 26
Tim's hobbies include scuba diving and fishing.

Joined PRO*ACT: May 2017
Years in the Produce/Food Industry: 1
Hannah enjoys high-caloric foods, hiking,
outdoor activities, Tevas, and growing her own food.

Joined PRO*ACT: April 2017
Years in the Produce/Food Industry: 1
Cierra enjoys running, hiking, and going to Disneyland.