BOSTON – Grass-fed, organic beef company, Verde Farms, has expanded its workforce and board membership.

Verde has nearly tripled its workforce in the last 18 months. And following minority investment from Manna Tree Partners, completion of its Series A, and its highest annual sales increase to date (31%), the company is intensifying its focus on team growth, including the addition of corporate leaders across the organization with experience in meat and consumer packaged goods.

Verde added Johnsonville’s chief executive officer Nick Meriggioli to its board in October, and more recently has appointed Jane Sinclair Hilk as the board’s fifth member.

Hilk has worked as senior vice president of Oscar Mayer and chief marketing officer at Kraft Foods, where she led a $3.6 billion, 450-employee division in addition to a 400-employee marketing and marketing services function. Their experience, along with board member Brent Drever of Manna Tree, has offered valuable insight and resources to Verde’s organization, from sales relationships and marketing expertise to operational assistance. To strengthen organizational development internally this year, Verde has appointed Haily Lai as vice president of human resources.

“We have a great team to build upon our mission and help us reach new milestones. This year is about investing in the growth of that team,” said Dana Ehrlich, CEO and founder of Verde. “Jane and Nick have been world-class additions to our board. We’ve continued this momentum internally by welcoming seasoned industry leaders across the organization, including Haily Lai as VP of HR. We’re excited to have her as a dedicated ‘people leader’ who will drive our ability to attract, support, and develop top talent.”

Verde will be expanding its branded products in grocery, club and natural/specialty channels from organic ground beef to its new Simply! sous vide range as the year continues. To support ongoing growth, the brand plans to hire an additional 10 corporate roles in 2021. Verde will also grow its internal manufacturing team in New Jersey by 60% or more by end of year to meet demand.