News

Following 16 years of dedicated service to the World Potato Congress Inc.’s Board of Directors, and the past four years as President, Romain Cools has decided to retire from WPC and effective July 1, 2022, he is stepping down as President and CEO of the World Potato Congress (WPC) Inc.

Mr. Cools has announced Mr. John Griffin will become the new President and CEO of the World Potato Congress (WPC) Inc.

Romain Cools stated: “John Griffin has been involved with the WPC Board of Directors since 2007 and for the past four years, he has served as Vice- President of the World Potato Congress Inc. Mr. Griffin resides in Elmsdale, Prince Edward Island, Canada. “

“Mr. Griffin brings with him a vast knowledge of the potato industry as President of WP Griffin Inc., a family-owned grower, packer and shipper of potatoes. WP Griffin Inc. packages many different types of potatoes in various sizes and most recently launched microwaveable mini potatoes with various spices.”
.
Romain Cools also announced that Mr. Peter VanderZaag would be stepping into the role of Vice-President of the WPC Inc. Mr. VanderZaag is President and a partner in Sunrise Potato with his daughter Ruth and son-in-law Nick. He also serves as visiting professor at the Yunnan Normal University in Kunming, China. Romain Cools stated that: “Peter has worked in over 60 countries around the world with the International Potato Centre (CIP) where he developed potato programs, and to improve crop management and potato production. His knowledge of the potato crop is recognized worldwide.”

WPC Inc. is a non-profit organization established to bring together global potato industry leaders at our triennial congresses with the objective of creating networking, increased trade and business development opportunities.

The 12th World Potato Congress is held from June 23-26, 2024 in Adelaide, Australia.