Premium fruit and vegetable ingredients supplier SVZ announced the appointment of Johan Cerstiaens as its new Managing Director, effective immediately. He succeeds Pieter Spanjers, who is stepping down after five years of dedicated service. In his new role, Johan will oversee operations in the Netherlands, Belgium, Spain, and Poland.

Johan brings more than 25 years of business experience in the food and beverage industry, including 12 years at SVZ, where he served as Sales Director first and subsequently Commercial Director. During this time, he established strategic commercial partnerships and strengthened SVZ’s presence in key European and Asian markets. As Managing Director, Johan will continue to lead the commercial team, ensuring continuity in customer and supplier relationships, while driving the company’s long-term growth strategy. 

“I’m honoured to take on this new challenge at such an important time for SVZ,” said Johan Cerstiaens. “I look forward to building on our strong foundation by developing new sourcing areas, expanding our portfolio, and further enhancing the value we bring to our customers and partners.”

“We thank Pieter for his leadership, under which SVZ was successfully positioned for future success,” said Sander van Pijkeren, Head of HR. “Johan is a growth-focused executive with deep expertise in sales, marketing, and business development. We are confident that under his leadership, SVZ will continue to strengthen its market position and accelerate its expansion internationally.”

SVZ International B.V. supplies high-quality fruit and vegetable ingredients to food and drink manufacturers around the world. Its long heritage in agricultural supply and accredited sustainability initiatives ensures a consistent, premium quality ingredient supply. With more than 100 years of experience in the global fruit and vegetable agribusiness, SVZ represents quality leadership throughout the whole supply chain. Its strong partnerships with local growers and production facilities within the world’s finest growing regions ensure SVZ fruit and vegetables are cultivated, harvested, and processed to the highest standards.