Woman of the Year in Agriculture 2020, Veronique Sallin (IMG Citrus & Cherrylake)

Описание: For over 40 year, Veronique Sallin's vision and perseverance has helped to grow the Florida Citrus industry. Born and raised in France, Veronique's international background paired with her passion for Florida grapefruit made her an effective agricultural ambassador. In recognition of her work highlighting French culture and heritage in the U.S., Fench President Nicolas Sarkozyi awarded her the National Order of Merit in 2021.

Veronique's business insights into overseas markets played a major role in helping the industry achieve record exports to Europe - close to 10 million cartons at its peak. Beyond expanding grower opportunities to new markets, Veronique improved industry inefficiencies. Challenging the status quo, IMG Citrus was the first in Florida citrus to sell directly to retailers in Europe. Veronique would go on to build trade relationships in Asia and was among the first to export Florida Red Grapefruit to Japan, opening a new market to the Florida citrus grower.

Building and sustaining a strong team is central to Veronique's leadership style. Incorporating innovative team-building practices and cross-functional forums, she looks to strengthen company culture and the personal growth of her employees. She shared her knowledge outside of IMG, leading classes and trainings for industry and community groups.

Building upon the success of their citrus operation, Veronique and her husband Michel branched out into horticulture, and in 1985 established a nursery in Groveland, Florida. Know today as Cherrylake, it - along with IMG Citrus - make up IMG enterprises, a family run business committed to supporting and promoting Florida's sustainable agriculture industry. Today, all three of her children, Timothee, Melanie, and Chloe are involved with the family business.