Eryn Balch joined the North American Olive Oil Association (NAOOA) as Executive Vice President in January 2012. Formed in 1989 and headquartered in Neptune, NJ, the NAOOA advocates for global olive oil standards enforcement and fair competitive trade, as the U.S. is the largest importer of olive oil in the world. Other key activities include buyer, dietitian and consumer education and efforts to increase olive oil consumption in North America. Promotions efforts focus on fostering a clear understanding of the different grades of olive oil and making consumers aware of the taste, versatility and health benefits of olive oils.
Prior to working for the NAOOA, Mrs. Balch spent five years with Sovena USA, one of the largest importers of olive oil in the United States. At Sovena, she worked on sales and marketing of a full range of olive oil products in both the retail and foodservice sectors, and participated on the company’s in-house tasting panel. She was also involved in supporting NAOOA efforts aimed at implementing state standards of identity for olive oil, as well as those promoting olive oil consumption in North America.
Before entering the olive oil industry, Mrs. Balch worked for a leading U.S. hospitality technology company for nearly a decade, in roles ranging from sales and marketing to product development and training. She holds a Master’s in Business Administration from Syracuse University, and a B.S. in Public Relations & Journalism. She resides with her family in central New York.