Melissa Melshenker Ackerman is a prominent leader in the fresh produce industry, currently serving as the founder and CEO of Planet Harvest, a mission-driven company dedicated to revolutionizing the consumption and accessibility of fresh produce. Planet Harvest focuses on refining supply chains and introducing rescued produce to consumers, all while championing a sustainable future.

Prior to founding Planet Harvest, Melissa was the President of Produce Alliance (PA), a national company specializing in consulting and purchasing of produce from field to fork. She joined PA in 2012 and held various roles, including Associate General Counsel, Vice President of Sales, and Executive Vice President of Sales, before becoming President. Under her leadership, PA played a pivotal role during the COVID-19 pandemic by participating in the USDA Farmers to Families Food Box Program, distributing millions of boxes of fresh produce to families in need across the United States.

Melissa’s commitment to service extends beyond her professional endeavors. She established the PA Foundation, a philanthropic organization designed to be a first-line responder to emergent humanitarian situations, such as hurricanes and floods. She also serves on the Advisory Board of Freight Farms and is a member of the YPO Chicago Chapter. In recognition of her leadership and impact, Melissa was honored as the Mid-America regional honoree for the 2021 YPO Global Impact Award.

Melissa holds three degrees from the University of Wisconsin in Legal Studies, Women’s Studies, and Spanish, graduating in 2005. She earned her Juris Doctor from the University of Miami School of Law in 2008. She resides in the Chicago suburbs with her husband, Jeff Ackerman, and their three sons: Spencer, Logan, and Theo.