Sun-Maid brought up one of its own to take the helm of the nation’s largest raisin grower cooperative as their previous leader moves on to another brand.

Sun-Maid Growers of California named Steve Loftus as president and CEO of the organization. Loftus previously served as president and chief operating officer, hired in December 2022. At the same time, the previous CEO, Harry Overly, will complete his exit from the company, leaving the Fresno company for a Minneapolis-based snack company.

“I am honored to assume the role of CEO and grateful for the support of the board and our grower-members,” Loftus said. “I look forward to continuing to work closely with our team to build on our success and drive the business forward, ensuring that Sun-Maid remains a leader in the industry.”

Related Story: Sun-Maid’s Top Leader Steps Aside, Will Aid Search for New CEO

Sun Maid’s Mission to Regain Snack Relevance

When Overly took over at Sun-Maid in 2017, one of his main missions was to return the raisin to snack relevance.

Some of Overly’s modernization strategies earned him death threats from growers, as he told the New York Times.

Overly had been vocal about the dried fruit’s popularity decline among children and adults. Under his leadership, Sun-Maid introduced multiple lines of flavored raisins.

The company also made its first acquisition under Overly, buying children’s snack maker Plum Organics.

“Harry’s commitment and leadership have been instrumental in guiding Sun-Maid through a significant period of growth and transformation. We are appreciative of his services and optimistic about Sun-Maid’s future under Steve’s direction,” said Paul Toste, chairman of Sun-Maid’s board.

In 2022, Overly stepped aside as CEO to become chairman of the board. Shortly before the announcement of Loftus’ position, Flagstone Foods announced Overly would be become that company’s CEO.

Flagstone produces several lines of nut-based snacks, including Nature’s Harvest.

Before coming onto Sun Maid, Loftus had been at Treehouse Foods.