Felix Peralta and David Encinas are not ones to shy away from a new opportunity. Though they draw from different backgrounds, the two industry aces have carved out unique spaces for themselves in the industry—spaces that both reside under the SunFed® roof.
Earlier this year, SunFed promoted Felix to Vice President of Operations and David to Director of Production, recognizing each of their dynamic skillsets and identifying how they can better serve the company. In an industry that is particularly focused on bringing up the next generation of produce leaders, their enthusiasm and passion are irreplaceable.
Since their recent appointments, each executive has risen to the occasion and then some. But I will let Felix and David tell you the story themselves.
Felix Peralta, Vice President of Operations, SunFed®: I began my career in 2006 with Eurofresh Farms after graduating as an Industrial Engineer. Over the years, I advanced through multiple roles across packing, harvesting, shipping, warehousing, transportation, and logistics, building a strong foundation in produce operations. My last role with Eurofresh was as Shipping and Logistics Manager, where I oversaw regional transportation routing, inventory management, lean manufacturing initiatives, equipment maintenance and control, internal logistics, and continuous improvement projects. Following Eurofresh’s acquisition by Naturesweet in 2013, I continued in this capacity until 2014.
David Encinas, Director of Production, SunFed®: I began working in greenhouses and seed companies at IS Invernaderos Sierra and Sierra Seed as a Controller in 2018. Those early experiences sparked a genuine passion for the sector and gave me hands-on exposure to both financial management and day-to-day operations. In 2021, I joined Wholesum in accounting, where I deepened my expertise in finance and internal processes for growers. Along the way, I’ve expanded my skills in grower relations, negotiation, and leadership, learning not just how the industry works, but how it touches people’s lives every day. Every step of this journey has reinforced my belief that agriculture is more than business—it’s about supporting communities, nurturing growth, and creating real impact.
FP: I joined SunFed in 2014 as Director of Logistics and advanced into production and grower relations. In that role, I designed and implemented a supply/demand planning program that improved operational efficiency and strengthened grower-sales communication. I also oversaw procurement across domestic and international markets, negotiated grower agreements, and developed production forecasts to support strategic decision-making.
DE: My journey with SunFed began in 2022. I started as Accounting Supervisor, ensuring financial processes ran smoothly, and quickly grew into the role of Director of Finance and Grower Accounting, where I managed budgets, financial planning, and nurtured relationships with our growers. Today, as Director of Production, I lead production that connects the farm to the market, ensuring efficiency, quality, and consistency at every step. What makes SunFed truly special is that it’s a place where growth is not just encouraged—it’s expected. Every day, I see how dedication, collaboration, and passion make a real difference, from our team to the growers we work with, and ultimately to the communities that enjoy our produce.
FP: During my time in the industry, I have gained experience in warehouse, logistics, and shipping protocols. I am well-versed in SOPs, engineering expertise with operational leadership to drive efficiency, and support sustainable business growth.
DE: I bring strong communication and relationship-building skills to this role. I also have a problem-solving mindset and the ability to adapt quickly, which helps me navigate the fast-paced and ever-changing nature of the produce business.
FP: What excites me most is the opportunity to continue elevating SunFed’s operational excellence. My focus is on driving efficiency across our facilities, strengthening supply chain resilience, and leveraging data-driven planning to align production with market demand. I see a tremendous opportunity to scale our capabilities while reducing costs and ensuring consistency in quality and food safety. Equally important is developing our people and building high-performing teams that embrace continuous improvement. As we grow, my goal is to create processes and systems that not only support today’s business but also prepare us for the future. By combining operational efficiency, strong grower partnerships, and innovation in technology and forecasting, we can position SunFed for sustainable growth and long-term success.
DE: I’m excited to grow alongside SunFed, building strong connections with our growers and customers. I’m truly grateful to be part of a team that values innovation, quality, and long-term commitment. What excites me the most is the opportunity to keep learning every day, contribute, and be part of a company that strives to make a positive impact across the industry.
With industry professionals like Felix and David steering the ship, the fresh produce industry is well poised for growth long into the future. It is our joy and honor to watch them as they rise to any occasion they face.
