Blue Diamond Growers hires new director of sustainability
Blue Diamond Growers is pleased to announce Dr. Daniel Sonke as its new director of sustainability. In this role, Dr. Sonke will lead global sustainability efforts across all segments of the Blue Diamond Growers business. He will be responsible for integrating company performance with the 111-year-old almond cooperative's sustainability pillars of economic viability, environmental stewardship, and community well-being.
With deep roots in the California almond industry, Dr. Sonke grew up on his family's almond farm near Ripon. He holds a Doctorate of Plant Medicine, from the University of Florida. Dr. Sonke most recently led corporate sustainable agriculture programs for Campbell Soup Company as Director of Sustainable Agriculture. Additionally, throughout his career, he has led numerous efforts to advance science-based sustainability efforts and certification programs for multiple agricultural commodities, including almonds, hazelnuts, pears, mushrooms, peaches, plums, nectarines, citrus, potatoes, wine grapes, and tomatoes. Dr. Sonke currently serves as a member of the Almond Board of California's Sustainability Working Group.