James Milne became Oppenheimer’s director of business development in August, 2010. In this capacity, he guides our business development team as it drives sales through high-impact promotional strategies for each of our product categories. 

Simultaneously, in the role of avocado and citrus category director, James continues to develop Oppenheimer's citrus category into a robust year-round supply, and concentrates on the strategic growth of the avocado category. He was appointed to the citrus role in 2006, adding avocados in 2009. James also served as the executive director of our greenhouse category from 2006 to 2009, director of marketing from 2001 to 2006 and pipfruit category director from 1996 to 2001.

James’ achievements at Oppenheimer include guiding the organization in a refreshed brand strategy, and directing a cohesive sales, marketing and product promotion approach in his categories of focus, and beyond.

James began his food marketing career with New Zealand-based ENZA in 1987 as a brand manager for the "Fresh-up" fruit juices division. He was soon promoted to marketing manager for fresh fruit exports to Asia. In 1994, James became vice president of ENZA Fresh in Vancouver, B.C., where he began interacting directly with Oppenheimer, ENZA's North American marketing arm.

A New Zealander from Wellington, James has a bachelor's of commerce and administration degree from Victoria University and has played cricket up to a high level in New Zealand.