JV Smith Companies has named Kristen Smith-Eshaya as its new president. Vic Smith will continue as CEO and chairman of the board.
JV Smith Companies began with the formation of Skyview Cooling Co. by John Smith, Kristen’s grandfather. Together with his son, Vic, they established JV Farms in Yuma, Arizona. As the companies grew, so did their family. Both Kristen and her brother, Kyle Smith, have been an integral part of the company’s growth in recent years. Kyle Smith leads Fresh Innovations, a JV Smith Companies entity.
Smith-Eshaya graduated valedictorian at Yuma High School in 2003. Smith-Eshaya then went on to graduate with a bachelor’s in economics from Colorado College, and a master’s in human relations from Northern Arizona University. She’s lived in Texas and California, working in finance and development for the arts, before moving back home to immerse herself in the family business. Smith-Eshaya lives in Yuma along with her husband, Emil, and their two children.
Following in her father’s footsteps of service, Smith-Eshaya has been involved with industry trade associations including having served on the Center for Growing Talent by Produce Marketing Association’s (PMA) board of directors, as well as the PMA Diversity and Inclusion Task Force. Smith-Eshaya is currently in the Western Growers Future Volunteer Leaders Program. She currently serves on the Children’s Museum of Yuma County’s board of directors.
“I am honored and ready to lead our team,” Smith-Eshaya said. “For the past five years, I have worked alongside some of the most intelligent, focused, selfless and passionate people I have ever met. We share a commitment to the industry, our team, the community and to the earth. With the collaborative approach our leadership team takes, the possibilities are endless.”
Vic shared his excitement to have his children leading the future of their family’s business, “Karen and I are so proud of our children and their accomplishments. They have a proven passion for what my dad started decades ago and to what I have dedicated my work life to, as well. Kristen has completely engrossed herself in the companies and our company culture. With her lifelong love for the industry, her commitment to our JV family and her drive, I am confident she will not only take on the president role with focus and determination but will continue to grow our team, our companies, and the industry.”
For more information: jvsmithcompanies.com