Mountain Blue announced the addition of three new territorial managers with the aim of strengthening support for its licensed producers in the Americas, China and the markets of Europe, Africa, the Middle East and India.

The appointments come as Mountain Blue celebrates 50 years since its founder, Ridley Bell, began his genetic improvement work. blueberriesCurrently, the company's genetics are present, under license, in more than 30 countries.

The new territorial managers will work closely with licensees and partner nurseries in Mountain Blue's main international markets, connecting growers with the company's breeding programs and trials, supporting plant supply and helping licensees make the most of Mountain Blue's genetic potential in their respective regions.

Rodrigo Cilloniz

Rodrigo Cilloniz has been appointed regional manager for the Americas. Based in Lima, Peru, Cilloniz has nearly 20 years of experience in operational and commercial leadership, eight of them in the [unclear - possibly "industry" or "industry"]. blueberry.

She previously held positions at Fall Creek Nursery, North Bay Produce, and Driscoll's. In her new role, she will support Mountain Blue licensees in North America, Central America, South America, and the Caribbean.

Rodrigo Cilloniz © Mountain Blue

Zhengyi (Bee) Lin

Zhengyi (Bee) Lin will assume the role of territorial manager for China. Based in Yunnan, Lin holds a Master of Science in Plant Science from Wageningen University & Research.

She began her career as a horticulturist in Costa, China, and since 2024 she has served as Director of Research and Development at Berries Blue China, where she led research in hydroponic cultivation of blueberries and cultivar evaluation.

Lin will work closely with Mountain Blue licensees and partners in China and other Asian markets.

Zhengyi (Bee) Lin © Mountain Blue

Craig Fulton

Craig Fulton was also appointed international technical manager for Research and Development (R&D) and territorial manager for Europe, Africa, the Middle East and India.

Based in Cape Town, Fulton joined Mountain Blue in 2023. He previously served as general manager of variety development at Cape Variety Group and as technical lead for BerryWorld South Africa.

In his role as international technical manager for R&D, he coordinates the international introduction of new selections and the supply of plants to various markets. From now on, he will also lead the relationship with licensees in Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and India.

“Our genetics are currently grown in more than 30 countries and it has never been more important to have experienced people on the ground, close to our licensees,” said Andrew Bell, CEO of Mountain Blue.

Craig Fulton © Mountain Blue

“Rodrigo, Bee, and Craig bring solid experience and strong relationships in their respective regions, and will help us continue building long-term relationships with our growers around the world,” he added.

The appointments also coincide with a significant milestone for Mountain Blue, which is celebrating 50 years of genetic improvement and innovation in blueberries under the leadership of its founder, Ridley Bell.

Bell began his career in Victoria, Australia, in 1975, evaluating Northern Highbush blueberry seedlings from North America. He then moved to northern New South Wales in 1981 to develop low-chill blueberry varieties that could bridge the gap between the Northern and Southern Hemisphere growing seasons.

“Fifty years ago I set out to develop a better blueberry"But I never did it alone," said Ridley Bell, founder and director of Research and Development at Mountain Blue.

“Everything we have achieved has been built together with our team, our producers, and the industry as a whole. Having people like Rodrigo, Bee, and Craig supporting our producers around the world is an important part of continuing that work.”

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