Jim Smits

Jim Smits is an accomplished executive with extensive experience in the retail and food industries. Currently serving as VP Retail Advisory at Apeel since October 2021, Jim has held significant leadership roles including Partner at The Partnering Group, Founder and Managing Director of Category Catalyst Consulting, and Vice President of Retail Development at Retail Solutions Inc. Prior to these positions, Jim held senior roles at Edible Arrangements and Dollar General, managing substantial annual operating plans and driving profitability. Jim was also a Group Vice President at Winn Dixie Stores and Albertsons/SUPERVALUE, where substantial operating budgets and teams were overseen. Notably, Jim has demonstrated a strong focus on perishables and fresh foods, contributing to industry-leading strategies and profits. Jim holds a degree from Harvard Business School, completed in 2001.