Company Description: Dole Food Company, Inc. is the largest producer and marketer of high-quality fresh fruit, fresh vegetables and fresh-cut flowers, and markets a growing line of packaged foods. The company does business in more than 93 countries, and employs approximately 60,000 full-time people.
Education: B.S., University of California at Berkeley
J.D., George Washington University
Department Size: 34
Immediate Prior Position: Executive Vice President, General Counsel & Corporate Secretary, Pinkerton’s, Inc.
1. Please describe a major career challenge.
My biggest challenge occurred from 1989-90, during my second general counsel position. We, at Concurrent Computer Corporation, were involved in an involuntary chapter 11 proceeding brought by major bondholders. These included Equitable Life, Columbia Savings & Loan, and Teachers. They wanted to prevent us from striking a deal with senior lenders.
The company’s government business had dried up after the Berlin Wall fell, aggravated by the crisis in the bond market and banking system.
My responsibilities as head of corporate development and general counsel included negotiating with senior lenders and dealing with the board. It was a rare moment in business history when the bondholders withdrew their petition. I am proud that I led the charge that prevented the involuntary proceeding.
2. What is the best career advice you have received?
When I was a youngster, my Aunt Cecille impressed upon me the importance of self-reliance. “If you fail,” she told me, “look to yourself.” She emphasized that you should not blame race or prejudice. She told me to look in the mirror and not to depend on crutches. That advice has carried me throughout life and convinced me that anything is possible
3. Does your industry offer any special opportunities or challenges for minority lawyers?
Opportunities for minorities in my industry are great. It’s a thriving business of fresh fruit and vegetables as well as packaged food and fresh flowers. Dole has been recognized as one of the top companies for minorities in the United States with locations in 93 countries, including Asia and Latin America. Many of our employees are minorities. And the industry as a whole has much minority involvement—from its base in the fields to research and throughout the product supply chain.
Return to General Counsel Profile List
From the December 2001 issue of Diversity & The Bar®