Nathan Aaron Avedian, 33

Senior Manager–Sourcing , Walmart , Bentonville, AR

June 9, 2025 | 3 min to read

SHORT BIO

Hometown: Kingsburg, CA
Hobbies: Snow Skiing, Golf, Boating, Web3, Working with AI
Family/Community: Single, Trex Fraternity, Sigma Chi Fraternity, Volunteer St. Gregory Church
Motto in Life: Help others whenever possible and always assume good intent.

A third-generation farmer, Avedian grew up in the produce industry. He began his career in agriculture at Avedian/Hagopian Farms in 2001, working in various positions and gaining extensive industry knowledge while assisting with his family’s businesses throughout high school.

From 2010 to 2014, while attending college, Avedian owned a blueberry brokerage, selling California blueberries for juice and by-product manufacturers. Over four years, he successfully grew the company and eventually sold it in 2014. During college, he also interned at Bee Sweet Citrus. After graduating from Fresno State, Avedian joined Walmart as a project manager while completing his master’s in agricultural economics from Kansas State. In 2017, he advanced to the role of senior planner at Walmart, overseeing bids for various categories and developing new tools and reports for the company. In 2020, Avedian transitioned to the position of senior sourcing manager for avocados and stone fruit at Walmart. In late 2023, he shifted commodities and became the senior sourcing manager for berries.

Q: How did you begin working in the produce industry?

Growing up in a third-generation farming family, I developed a passion for fresh produce at a very young age. I experienced all aspects of the industry, helping on the family farm and learning the various roles in production agriculture. Through internships and running my own blueberry brokerage, I gained insight into the sales and marketing side of fresh produce. This journey led me to Walmart, where I have been employed for 10 years.

Q: What do you wish you knew when you first started your career?

Agriculture is never boring. The industry is constantly evolving, presenting new opportunities to learn and achieve success.

Q: What is the one thing in your business you are most passionate about?

I am passionate about making the industry a better place. I want farming to be a viable career path for future generations, so I am committed to ensuring the industry makes sustainable choices.

Q: How has the industry changed during your tenure?

The industry has continuously adapted to new technologies and innovations, making it an exciting field. I enjoy seeing new minds enter the industry with fresh perspectives on problem-solving. The agricultural sector is on the brink of transformation through the utilization of AI technologies.

Q: What accomplishment are you most proud of in your career?

I am proud of my overall continued growth. My goal is to become a leader in the industry and leave the fresh produce sector in a better state than when I entered it.

Q: What advice would you give someone new to the produce industry?

Be curious and passionate about your work. Remember that everyone in the agricultural industry plays a crucial role in providing healthy food for families.

Q: What do you see as a critical issue facing the industry in the next decade and why?

The fresh produce industry will always encounter new hurdles and obstacles. It is essential to adapt and keep the needs of farmers and consumers at the forefront.