Leadership Changes at Golden State Foods: New Appointments Enhance Strategic Direction

Strategic Leadership Shift at Golden State Foods

Golden State Foods (GSF), a prominent player in the foodservice supply industry, has made noteworthy changes to its leadership team. The company has appointed Everton Harris as the Corporate Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer, while Campbell Cooper has been promoted to Corporate Senior Vice President and Chief Customer and Strategy Officer. These strategic moves are expected to bolster GSF's growth and encourage a more people-focused culture within the organization.

Introducing Everton Harris

Based in Irvine, California, Everton Harris recently joined GSF in December 2024, bringing over 35 years of extensive human resources experience to the table. In his new role, he aims to act as a strategic business partner and a trusted advisor to GSF’s CEO, senior executive team, and the board of directors. Harris's mission is to elevate the HR function across the enterprise by fostering robust relationships throughout all levels of the organization. His focus will be on crafting a future-oriented HR framework that positions talent as a competitive advantage, thus facilitating the organization's potential for growth.

Brian Dick, President and CEO of GSF, expressed his enthusiasm regarding Harris's addition to the team, stating, "We are so pleased to have Everton join our senior team. He is a talented and purposeful HR leader who will help us continue to elevate our people-focused initiatives." Harris's previous stints include working as the Chief Human Resources Officer at Herbalife Nutrition and Vice President of HR for the EMEA and India regions at Hitachi Data Systems. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Hull University in England.

Campbell Cooper's New Role

Campbell Cooper's transition into his new leadership position marks another pivotal development for GSF. He will oversee the company's strategic planning processes and all commercial sales activities, including the Global McDonald's Business Unit and National Accounts Sales from GSF's campus in Irvine. Cooper’s promotion comes as part of GSF’s efforts to develop a sound strategic plan that addresses global customer needs while advancing business performance and growth over the next five years.

Cooper previously served as GSF's Corporate Vice President and President of the International Business Group, where he was responsible for operations in the Asia Pacific and Middle East/Africa regions. His promotion has been welcomed by the company, with Dick noting, "Campbell is a sharp commercial mind and capable strategic thinker. He understands our culture and values and will lead our sales groups with energy and focus."

Before joining GSF in 2018, Cooper held key positions at global brands such as Fronterra, Nestlé Purina Europe, and Zespri International, and earned his degree in Horticultural Science from Lincoln University in New Zealand.

About Golden State Foods

Golden State Foods is one of the largest diversified suppliers in the foodservice industry, providing essential products and services from its headquarters in Irvine, California. Established in 1947, GSF supports over 200 leading brands in more than 50 countries, offering reliable quality, innovation, and exceptional customer service through its various operations, including the processing and distribution of liquid products, protein, and dairy.

The recent leadership appointments are expected to play a crucial role in GSF's ongoing commitment to excellence, innovation, and customer service, further solidifying its position as a leader in the foodservice supply industry.