Ben Mand is the CEO of Harmless Harvest, a pioneer in U.S. refrigerated premium coconut water and plant-based dairy products.Harmless has been built on a fundamental belief in “constructive capitalism” – an ecosystem-based approach to business that integrates all the stakeholders to deliver better products and outcomes for all.
During his time at the helm of the company, which more than doubled its business in four years, Ben has successfully transformed Harmless Harvest from a brand solely focused on coconut water to a leader in premium functional beverages and plant-based dairy. After only three years, new beverage and plant-based dairy products represent well over 15% of the company’s sales. Under Ben’s leadership, Harmless Harvest has radically streamlined its supply chain, reducing manufacturing costs in Thailand and the U.S. by 50% per unit, ultimately transforming an unprofitable business into a durable and scalable company.
Ben’s commitment to the company’s mission-led objectives has resulted in over $1 million invested in Fair For Life and community support initiatives, a transition to regenerative organic agricultural practices, conversion to 100% rPET bottles, and bringing Harmless Harvest dramatically closer to its goal of 100%
zero-waste.
Over the past 20 years, Ben has garnered extensive experience building and leading responsible businesses. Ben’s career started in the late 90’s when he took a sabbatical from consulting to volunteer at an organic coffee farm in Costa Rica, where he discovered a passion for the food he grew by working closely with local farmers.
Since then, Ben has worked in various brand marketing and innovation roles at leading companies including General Mills, Johnson & Johnson, and Interbrand. He has made an impact as a change agent, driving improvements in health, sustainability, and social impact while delivering consistent sales and profit growth.
Prior to joining Harmless Harvest, Ben oversaw all marketing, innovation and creative strategy for Plum Organics, a leading organic baby food brand. Under Ben’s tenure, the brand quickly accelerated from #3 to #1 in the category.
Ben is a seasoned speaker and has been featured at industry events including SXSW, Natural Products Expo and Advertising Week, speaking about everything from socially-minded business practices to marketing with empathy.