Our Staff

Ben Johnson, President & Founder

Growing up in Kentucky, Ben was introduced to the ideas of sustainable agriculture through the writing of fellow Kentuckian, Wendell Berry.  Drawn by the dedication of such pioneers, Ben was determined to work in this realm.  Since 1992, Ben has been involved in buying, selling, and managing in the world of organic produce.

Kurt Jacobs, Sales

25 years in produce means that Kurt is a fantastic resource for everyone who works with him, from co-workers to customers to truck drivers.  His good nature, sense of humor, and commitment to service are just a few of the many assets he brings to Bridges Produce.  Originally from Illinois, he moved west for his education at U. of O. and now lives in Eugene where he enjoys spending time with his family, playing guitar, gardening, and photography.

Maureen Royal, Sales

As a leader in the food industry and a pioneer in Organic Marketing, Maureen has built relationships with a multitude of organic growers who farm a wide variety of organic produce throughout North and South America. After nearly two decades as Sales Director at CF Fresh, she now brings her knowledge, experience, and passion for organic agriculture and sustainability to Bridges Produce!

Maureen serves on the Advisory Council for Tilth Producers of Washington, as a Board member for the Food Trade Sustainability Leadership Association, and as a member of the Sustainability Committee on Consumer Education.

Oscar Trujillo, Sales & Nogales Operations

Growing up outside Pleasant Hill, Oregon, Oscar was born from community gardening, raw goat’s milk and spring water. In 1995 Oscar started at the ground level with Organic produce distribution and has enjoyed the amazing adventure the industry has taken everyone on since then. Currently he manages Bridges’ Mexican imports and sells from the Nogales dock during the winter months. When opportunity arises, he’s often found exploring and trying new things – recent new ventures include hang gliding and a revisit to off road motorcycling.

Debbie Noboa, Administration & Accounting

After 20+ years of living in Northwest Washington, Debbie moved to the Portland area in 2009 to be closer to her children and grandchildren. She has worked in the organic produce industry since April 1989 and looks forward to continuing the adventure as a member of the elite squadron known as the Bridges Produce administrative staff.

Lisa Heeley, Sales & Marketing Assistant

Lisa Heeley joined the Bridges Produce team in February 2010 as Sales/Marketing Assistant. Lisa got her first taste of the organic produce business back in 1996 when she worked in the graphic design area for CF Fresh in Northwest Washington. In 1997, she moved to the Vancouver/Portland area, graduated from the Art Institute of Portland in May, 1999 and worked in the Interior Design field as a sales person and designer. Lisa has brought her organizational talents as well as her keen artistic sense to the benefit of Bridges Produce.