Veteran food broker Linda Farnsworth Gwinn has joined Itta Bena, Mississippi-based Heartland Catfish Co. as a regional sales manager, working with customers in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina and South Carolina.
Founded in 1996, Heartland has grown into a large U.S. farm-raised catfish producer and processor. Owned by the Tackett Family of Tackett Fish Farms, it is the largest single producer of farm-raised catfish in the U.S., selling fresh and frozen catfish products to retailers and restaurants nationwide.
Farnsworth Gwinn has spent most of her career as a food broker, establishing products in the foodservice industry through sales and marketing operations.
Citing her career experience and previous work with Heartland as a broker, the company said Farnsworth Gwinn understands catfish and each stage of the processing cycle. Her industry knowledge and consumer relationships will support Heartland’s model for expanded distribution and growth.
“I am so excited and grateful to have this opportunity. I have had a strong connection with Heartland Catfish for many years and I am thrilled to be joining as a regional sales manager,” Farnsworth Gwinn said.
“When I first started working with Heartland Catfish, I developed a relationship with Mr. Tackett and the Heartland team and would frequently talk with them about the needs of Heartland customers that are always at the forefront of their minds.
“The overall determination of quality service as a company really resonated with me. Heartland Catfish is an amazing company and it feels like I am going to be with family.”
Jonathan Mills, VP of sales and marketing, said Heartland “could not be happier to have her join as regional sales manager.”
“Her understanding of catfish, paired with vast industry experience, will greatly aid in Heartland Catfish growth, serving our current and future customers and continuation of ensuring lasting industry connections,” he said.
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