Joe Gerhardt is an accomplished professional with extensive experience in the food and beverage industry, currently serving as Vice President of CI at SunOpta since February 2009. Gerhardt has held several key positions within the company, including Plant Director and Senior Plant Manager, where responsibilities included overseeing plant operations and executing significant projects such as a $27MM oatbase initiative. In previous roles, Gerhardt has introduced innovative processes in the Healthy Snacks Division and efficiently managed warehousing operations for aseptic processing and logistics. Additionally, Gerhardt briefly served as Vice President of Operations at Gehl Food & Beverage, focusing on operational excellence, food safety, and sustainable production practices. Educational background includes attendance at Minnesota State Community and Technical College and Jefferson High School.