—by Kate Prengaman

The Washington Apple Commission announced the hiring of a new president, Michael Schadler, to take the reins of the export-focused organization in September.

Schadler currently serves as the executive vice president of the Florida Tomato Exchange and as manager of the Florida Tomato Committee. Previously, he worked in international marketing for the Florida Department of Citrus.

That background positions him well to lead the Washington Apple Commission, which handles international promotions, advertising and market development for the state’s apple industry, said Todd Fryhover, who is retiring after 18 years with the commission.

“I have confidence Michael and WAC staff will work seamlessly to represent the Washington apple grower community and take our programs to the next level in these challenging times for Washington state tree fruit,” Fryhover said in a statement.

A University of Washington alumni, Schadler said he was excited about the opportunity to return to the state and work “on behalf of the state’s signature crop,” he said in a statement. “I’m looking forward to helping the apple industry manage a very competitive international landscape. There are a lot of headwinds, but the industry is well-positioned to continue building on its long-term export success.” •