Phil Herbig knows how to keep things moving, and at Enns Packing/WesPak Sales, that is quite the responsibility. “If people need something fixed, they call me. I love working with people, I love fixing problems. Basically, I make things go.”

Phil Herbig, Chief Operations Officer

A man of many titles, Phil considers himself the Chief Operations Officer for Enns Packing/WesPak Sales, based outside of Kingsburg, California. “In a family business, job titles don’t mean a thing. If there is trash on the sidewalk, you pick it up. You do what needs to be done.”

Phil cites the relationships he’s made as a member of United Fresh as a tremendous advantage, “These folks are my friends. It’s like having thousands of consultants at your fingertips.” He is an alumnus of the Produce Industry Leadership Program’s Class 9, and says, “I can’t even begin to tell you the value of this program and how it has changed my life.” Participation in the program and in the Washington Public Policy Conference has led him to take an active role as a member of United’s Center for Global Produce Sustainability Advisory Board, the Grower-Shipper Board, and the Nutrition and Health Council Board.

Since 1992, Phil has been vital to the smooth operation of Enns Packing/WesPak Sales. The family farming operation that began in 1910 on 20 acres has grown to include advanced packing facilities to process California stone fruit, table grapes, pomegranates and citrus. His continued involvement with United Fresh reflects his desire to stay ahead of the curve: “Our family business is constantly reinventing itself. Yes, we have our roots, but we do not stand still - we are always searching for those new marketing segments or how to rebrand ourselves.”

Phil says, “I work hard. I expect everyone else to work as hard as I do.” Though when it’s time to slow down, he can be found in his garden at home, “It’s the peace and quiet I crave. It helps me wind down and relax.” Phil lives with his wife, Cheryl, of 25 years next to the operation. They have two children, one recently graduated and working in San Diego and one currently attending Point Loma Nazarene University in San Diego.