After an extensive and thorough executive search, the Almond Alliance of California has named Elaine Trevino as its new president and CEO. In this role, she will provide oversight of the organization’s operations, communications, government relations and overall advocacy efforts on behalf of the California almond industry. In addition, she will manage the organization’s various industry strategic partnerships, initiatives and memberships across the state of California. Based in Modesto, Trevino will report directly to Brad Craven, Chairman of the Almond Alliance of California.
“We are excited to have Elaine be part of our team,” said Craven. “She brings a wealth of experience, statewide relationships, extensive community outreach, public policy, government affairs and strategic partnerships. We look forward to having her contribute to the continued advocacy efforts of California’s almond industry. In looking for a new president of the Almond Alliance, we knew that the almond industry has enjoyed a lot of success, making this position attractive to a large pool of candidates. In order to enjoy continued success, our organization will also need to take on any challenges or threats head-on, with integrity and confidence. This is what Elaine brings to the Almond Alliance.”
Most recently, Trevino was President of California Strategic Solutions, a consulting company focused in business development, community outreach and delivering comprehensive strategies for complex issues. Trevino has diverse experience in both the public and private sectors in the areas of agriculture, transportation, community development and technology. She is a recognized leader in the Central Valley and understands the importance of strong bi-partisan relationships. Equally important, Elaine understands the value of communication and outreach to all segments of the California almond community.
Chairman Craven praised Interim President Andrea York for her efforts over the past few months. “The board deeply appreciates Andrea stepping up from her busy role as Government Affairs Manager and taking on the additional responsibilities as Interim President,” said Craven. “We look forward to Andrea working closely with Elaine on the broad range of issues vital to the almond community.”
Past Chairman Dick Cunningham commented, “I am thrilled with the hiring of Elaine Trevino to be the next President/CEO of the Almond Alliance of California. Elaine has a wealth of relevant experience that will serve our members well. I look forward to working with Elaine to ensure the sustainability and success of the almond community.”
Before creating California Strategic Solutions, Trevino served as a Deputy Secretary at the California Department of Food and Agriculture for Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger and Gov. Gray Davis. She was responsible for the oversight of the California specialty crop block grant funding allocation as well as the international trade programs and the statewide county fair network.
Former CDFA Secretary Bill Lyons, currently Chairman of the Almond Alliance’s Government Affairs Committee, pointed to Trevino’s successful bi-partisan approach as Deputy Secretary. “It says a lot about Elaine that she served successfully under both a Democratic and Republican governor,” he noted. “Her ability to be able to work with both sides of the aisle is a critical reason why she rose to the top of the candidates we interviewed. She knows and understands how the state Capitol works and appreciates the relationship building that is critical to achieving positive results with legislation and regulatory policy.”
Chairman Craven praised Trevino’s communication skills. “With her professional demeanor and personable communication skills, she is certain to be well received by the almond community,” he said. “Elaine has the capacity to address the wide range of issues facing the almond industry in California. We feel fortunate to have found someone with Elaine’s experience and aptitude at this particular time in the Almond Alliance’s advancement. She is the right person at the right time for the almond community.”
Prior to her tenure at the State, Trevino was the president of an economic development corporation and a former executive for a Fortune 100 financial institution. Trevino has served on numerous boards and commissions and is an advocate of leadership programs for youth. Born and raised in the Central Valley of California, Elaine has a long history of community service in the region and has a great respect for agriculture and the value of the industry to California’s economy.
