Meet the Team

Max Yeater joined PRO*ACT in 1994 as a commodity buyer. Throughout his tenure he’s held positions of increasing responsibility, including Vice President of Procurement, a title he held from August 2000 until his promotion to Chief Operating Officer in 2007, and then promoted to President in January 2011. In 2016, Max had the title of CEO added to his position. He has overseen the successful development of PRO*ACT's strategic grower/shipper relationships, contracts, and consolidated purchasing programs which bring value to PRO*ACT’s suppliers, distributors, and multi-unit customers.

As CEO / President, Max focuses on long-term strategic planning and accountability for PRO*ACT.

When he's away from the office Max enjoys golfing, cars and being a dad!

Bob Kiehnle joined PRO*ACT in October 2007 as Chief Financial Officer with more than 25 years of financial management experience. Most recently he was a Partner in the Dallas practice of Tatum, LLC, a nationwide professional service firm. Previous positions include Chief Financial Officer with TradeMC Inc., WorldPoint Logistics, and Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer for Fresh America Corp.

Bob is responsible for leading the strategic financial direction of PRO*ACT and Harvest Sensations.

Bob has a MBA from the University of Oregon and a BA from the University of California Davis.

When away from the office, Bob enjoys trekking and golfing.

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.

Joe Cimino joined PRO*ACT in 2000 as a Product Manager, in November 2007, was promoted to Director of Procurement, and in April 2017 became our Vice President of Procurement. Joe has more than 20 years experience in the produce industry. He began his produce career at his family’s business, Cimino Brothers Produce, a fourth-generation produce company in Salinas, Calif.

He is responsible for overseeing the procurement, quality, and logistics departments as well as supplier relations and contract negotiations.

Joe spends his leisure time watching sporting and live music events and spending time with his family.

Phil Penny joined PRO*ACT in 2006 as Vice President Information Technology with more than 20 years in information technology and executive management experience. He was most recently the Chief Information Officer for Pavestone Co., LLP and prior to that held executive management positions at NTSC Dallas and with FreshPoint, Inc.

Phil is responsible for PRO*ACT’s information technology initiatives as well as being a resource for PRO*ACT’s network of distributors.

Phil has a BA in Economics and History from the University of Liverpool, England.

In his spare time Phil enjoys golfing, gardening and traveling.

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.

Sandra Griffith joined PRO*ACT in June of 2015. Sandra is responsible for overseeing staff operations, business planning and budget development of HR programs as well as directing and managing human resource initiatives throughout the organization. Sandra started her HR career at Macy’s and brings nearly 10 years’ HR experience to the role.

Sandra has a BS in Business Administration from California State University, Monterey Bay.

Her hobbies include running, reading, and baking, however she spends most of her time with her two kids and husband hiking and exploring the redwood forest or enjoying the beaches of the Monterey Bay.

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 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 1999
Years in Industry: 19
Denise's hobbies include cooking, reading and gardening.

Joined PRO*ACT: May 14th, 2018
Years in Industry: 6 months
Kara's hobbies include chillin with her pups at the beach! Paradise!!

Joined PRO*ACT: 2015
Years in Industry: 3
Sandra's hobbies include running with friends, enjoying the local beaches, baking, and playing with her kids.

Joined PRO*ACT: November 2015
Years in Industry: 20
Jane enjoys spending time with her five grand children and is an avid follower of the San Francisco Giants & San Jose Sharks. In her free time she enjoys cooking, baking, and gardening

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.

Doug’s responsibility is to analyze and create opportunities that lead to internal and external procurement sales growth.

Doug came to Pro*Act after the sale of Bozeman Produce Company, LLC in Bozeman, Montana. He was the founder and managing partner of that company, which he opened in 1999. Bozeman Produce was a wholesale distribution company that serviced retail and foodservice accounts. Prior to that, Doug worked as a broker in Salinas.

Doug is a fifth-generation Salinas Valley native. His family is active in agriculture and ranching. In his spare time, Doug enjoys working outdoors, ranch work and spending time with his family.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Danny Krow joined PRO*ACT in August 2015 as Client Services Sales Director. Prior to PRO*ACT, Danny worked for several years in sales, operations and transportation with FreshPoint.  He has also worked on the manufacturer side, including positions at Chobani and ConAgra Foods. His responsibilities have included interfacing and relationship building with national accounts, brokers and distributors.

Danny enjoys playing basketball and watching WWE wrestling.

Ryan Camariotes joined PRO*ACT in January 2019.

Prior to PRO*ACT, Ryan worked for over 8 years in the foodservice industry, some of her responsibilities have included managing and developing partnerships with distributors, manufacturers, and national accounts. Prior to PRO*ACT, Ryan was an Account Executive, for the southeast region, for Schreiber Foods International, Inc. Her career also includes sales experience in foodservice distribution with Merchants Foodservice.

Ryan enjoys spending time with friends and family, as well as the beach, cooking, bowling, & pure barre.

Ryan Spraggins joined PRO*ACT in April 2019.

Prior to PRO*ACT, Ryan worked for over 5 years in the produce industry.

Ryan enjoys watching sports, traveling and going to concerts.

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: September 2015
Years in Industry: 4
Jessica enjoys running, hiking, camping, and spending time with family & friends.

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: August 2014
Years in the Produce/Food Industry: 3
Claudia enjoys walking, hiking, traveling and spending quality time with her family.

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

Joined PRO*ACT: May 2019.
Years in Produce: 10+
Yesenia enjoys spending quality time with family.

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

Bob Kiehnle joined PRO*ACT in October 2007 as Chief Financial Officer with more than 25 years of financial management experience. Most recently he was a Partner in the Dallas practice of Tatum, LLC, a nationwide professional service firm. Previous positions include Chief Financial Officer with TradeMC Inc., WorldPoint Logistics, and Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer for Fresh America Corp.

Bob is responsible for leading the strategic financial direction of PRO*ACT and Harvest Sensations.

Bob has a MBA from the University of Oregon and a BA from the University of California Davis.

When away from the office, Bob enjoys trekking and golfing.

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: September 2006
Years in the Produce/Food Industry: 7
Years in Finance Industry: 12
Maria's hobbies include knitting, quilting, needlepoint, Giants baseball and her 4-legged kids.

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: July 2018
Years in the industry: 2 ½ years
Years in Finance Industry: 8 years
Antione enjoys spending most of his time with family and girlfriend. In between that, he enjoys watching all sports, skateboarding, and playing video

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: June 2015
Years in the Produce/Food Industry: 1
Anne enjoys perusing local art festivals, hiking with her dog, and cheering on the Atlanta Braves.

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 2018
Years in the Produce/Food Industry: 8
Jordan enjoys climbing, hiking, snowboarding, and balancing those activities by regularly baking and eating lots of cookies.

Joined PRO*ACT: July 2018
Years in the Produce/Food Industry: 5
Tori enjoys connecting with people over food, playing social dodgeball, backpacking and camping, and tending to her rooftop garden in Boston, MA.

Joined PRO*ACT: July 2018
Years in the Produce/Food Industry: 5
Danika enjoys gardening, cooking, and spending time with friends and family.

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

Joined PRO*ACT: October 2018
Years in the Produce/Food Industry: 1
Liz enjoys cooking, adventuring with my dog, kayaking, spending time with friends & family