Claudio Oviedo, 39
Sourcing Specialist , Pro*Act , Monterey, CA
June 10, 2025 | 3 min to read
SHORT BIO
Hometown: Salinas, CA
Hobbies: Running, Staying active, Home projects, Spending time with family
Family/Community: Married, 2 children
Motto in life: “The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall.” — Nelson Mandela
Born and raised in the Salinas Valley by migrant parents, Oviedo was driven to carve his own path, leading to a diverse career trajectory. After early roles in banking, sales, and a brief period in law enforcement, he transitioned into the agriculture industry in 2016, joining Markon Cooperative at age 30. Starting in a support role, he collaborated with major broadliners, such as Gordon Foods and Shamrock, managing daily account operations. His dedication and adaptability led to a promotion as product manager in 2018, where he oversaw key commodities including warm vegetables, carrots, tomatoes, melons, limes, and specialty items, leveraging strong supplier relationships to ensure operational success.
In 2021, he joined ProAct as sourcing specialist to develop and implement new commodity programs across warm vegetables, tomatoes and limes, supporting a vast network of distributors and national accounts. Drawing on his procurement expertise and supplier network from his time at Markon, he spearheaded these initiatives, strengthening ProAct’s supply chain and market presence. For four years with Pro*Act, he has been recognized for his contributions to expanding commodity programs, reflecting his commitment to excellence and collaborative achievements within the agriculture and foodservice industries.
Q: How did you begin working in the produce industry and why?
I’ve been surrounded by produce for most of my life. Both of my parents, in some form, always worked in produce; my father retired from his own freight company a year ago, hauling for several well-known companies in Salinas and Yuma. About a decade ago, my now-wife (who also works in produce) encouraged me to consider pursuing a career in the field. Inspired by her support and my upbringing, I began researching entry-level opportunities and enrolled in agricultural courses at a local college. There, I connected with an instructor who specialized in produce marketing and introduced me to Markon. That recommendation led to my first role in the industry, and I haven’t looked back.
Q: What advice would you give someone new to the produce industry?
Dive into the supply chain, understand the growers, logistics and end-users. My time at Markon taught me to be adaptable, whether managing daily accounts or navigating supply disruptions. Build a strong network; relationships are everything. Finally, stay curious about technology — tools for traceability and inventory are transforming the industry.
Q: What is the one thing in your business that you are most passionate about?
Building resilient supply chains that deliver quality produce consistently. Knowing my work supports farmers, while feeding millions, drives me.
Q: What do you think consumers will desire in the future?
Consumers will demand transparency, wanting to know where their produce comes from, especially with trade shifts post-2025. Sustainability will be huge. Convenience, such as pre-prepped warm vegetables, will grow in foodservice. Health-focused and plant-based options will keep expanding.
Q: What accomplishment are you most proud of in your career?
Proud of coming to Pro*Act and leveraging my supplier relationships to establish commodity programs across the U.S. Being recognized for expanding these programs over the years feels like a testament to my Salinas Valley roots.
NOMINEES
