FRESNO, CA –  American Pistachio Growers (APG) announced the appointment of Mike Forbes as its new President and Chief Executive Officer, effective September 1.

Forbes brings more than two decades of leadership experience across the food, consumer products, and wellness industries. Throughout his career, he has helped build purpose-driven brands, accelerate growth, and lead organizations through periods of transformation while maintaining a strong focus on consumers, innovation, and sustainability.

"We are excited to welcome Mike Forbes as the next President and CEO of American Pistachio Growers," said APG Board Chairman Justin Wylie. "Mike brings exceptional leadership experience, strong strategic judgment, and a genuine appreciation for the growers and industry he will represent. The Board believes he is the right person to build on APG's strong foundation, expand opportunities for American pistachios, and lead the organization into its next chapter of growth."

A Wisconsin native with agricultural roots, Forbes grew up in 4-H and comes from a family of farmers. After beginning his career with McKinsey & Company, he held leadership roles at Jim Beam, Procter & Gamble, and General Mills before a personal health journey inspired him to focus his career on food and wellness.

That passion led him to California Olive Ranch, where he spent nearly a decade helping grow the business from less than $10 million to more than $100 million in annual revenue while advancing to Executive Vice President of the Consumer Business.

Forbes went on to serve as CEO of Alter Eco, leading the organic chocolate company through a successful turnaround centered on regenerative agriculture. He later held executive leadership roles with Safely, MaryRuth Organics, and The Vitamin Shoppe, where he helped drive growth, expand retail partnerships, and strengthen consumer and digital businesses.

Forbes holds a Bachelor of Business Administration with Honor s from the University of Wisconsin–Madison and an MBA from Harvard Business School. He will relocate to Fresno as he assumes the role on September 1.

As President and CEO, Forbes will lead APG's efforts to advance the interests of American pistachio growers and processors, strengthen domestic and international demand, and continue promoting the nutritional, economic, and environmental benefits of American-grown pistachios.

Contact: Hannah Doyle

209.769.0548

hdoyle@americanpistachios.org