FVGC Appoints Stephen Heckbert to Lead Grower Advocacy

Former pork council ceo to lead canada’s produce sector

Bonnie Johnson
September 08, 2026
Media Article

FVGC has appointed Stephen Heckbert as Executive Director, bringing extensive advocacy and leadership experience to guide Canada’s fruit and vegetable sector through industry and trade challenges.

Fruit and Vegetable Growers of Canada (FVGC) has named Stephen Heckbert as its new Executive Director, effective Sept. 8. He brings more than 25 years of experience in leadership, communications, advocacy and organizational management, and most recently served as CEO of the Canadian Pork Council.

Heckbert’s appointment comes as Canada’s fresh produce sector faces challenges such as rising production costs, market pressures and trade uncertainty. FVGC said his leadership will help strengthen advocacy efforts and build on the organization’s recent progress and renewal.

“Since 1922, FVGC has been an important voice in advocating for growers across the country who produce more than 120 different commodities. Rising costs and trade uncertainty are creating huge challenges for Canada’s fruit and vegetable sector,” said Marcus Janzen, President of the FVGC Board of Directors. He added that Heckbert’s experience in advocacy, communications and leadership positions him well to support the organization’s priorities.

Janzen also acknowledged the contributions of Carla Ventin, who served as Interim Executive Director during the transition period. He thanked her for helping strengthen the organization and noted that she will remain engaged with FVGC moving forward.

Ventin said the transition period was marked by strong collaboration between the board and staff, helping ensure FVGC remained an effective voice for growers in Ottawa. She added that she looks forward to working with Heckbert to support a seamless leadership transition.

Heckbert said he is eager to begin working with growers and industry stakeholders across the country. “Canada’s fruit and vegetable growers are a critical sector of our economy and have the potential to grow even more food in Canada,” he said.

The Ottawa-based not-for-profit association represents growers producing more than 120 crop types on over 14,000 farms nationwide. Since 1922, FVGC has advocated on issues affecting Canada’s fresh produce sector while promoting a healthy, safe and sustainable food system.