New Queen Crowned | New President | New Executive Director

NWA Announces New Executive Director
The National Watermelon Association, Inc. is pleased to announce the appointment of Robert (Bob) Morrissey as Executive Director. The Associations’ corporate office is based in Plant City, Florida.

Morrissey joins the NWA following five years as the Marketing Director for fresh citrus fruit at the Florida Department of Citrus (FDOC).

Jody Land, President of the NWA, said, “We’re looking forward to the leadership and experience that Bob brings to help us take our association to a higher level of excellence.”

At the FDOC, Morrissey led the industry in the development of consensus-based programs that were approved by a broad range of industry representatives including growers and packinghouse operators. The programs, which covered marketing as well as economic and scientific research, continue to prosper today.

Morrissey’s previous work history includes eighteen years with major supermarket chains such as The Kroger Company and Albertsons, as well as ten years in the marketing services industry with PIA Merchandising Co, Inc. His experience in management, buying, merchandising, marketing and familiarity with the scientific community were keys to this assignment.

As Executive Director of the NWA, Morrissey’s responsibilities will include working with state watermelon associations, meeting with Congressional representatives, coordinating with the USDA on grant programs, discussing growing research with the scientific community, and improving current programs.

“The NWA has provided me with a great opportunity that is both exciting and challenging,” Morrissey said. Consensus building and leadership to create the future vision for the Association are our main focal points in the months and years to come. I look forward to the challenge to make a difference and provide value to the entire membership of the NWA.”

The National Watermelon Association has been in existence since 1914. The purpose of the Association is to promote the best interests of the Watermelon Industry from production to consumption by constantly seeking improvements in the growing, grading, handling, transportation, distribution and sale of watermelon.