Meet Jill Overdorf
Chef. Educator. Innovator.

From Chef to Industry Innovator

Connecting field, food, and fork for a more sustainable and collaborative future

Jill’s journey began in the kitchen. After graduating with honors from the Culinary Institute of America, she honed her craft in some of the world’s most prestigious kitchens—from Osteria del Circo in New York City to The Getty Museum in Los Angeles.

But it was her transition from chef to produce industry expert that truly defined her career. Over two decades, Jill has worked with farmers, distributors, seed developers, and nonprofits, bridging the gap between agriculture and foodservice.

Today, as the founder of The Produce Ambassador, Jill brings her unique perspective to every project. Whether she’s consulting for global corporations like Bayer Vegetable Seed and Naturipe Farms or advocating for sustainability with the LA Food Policy Council, her mission remains the same: to connect, educate, and innovate.

Our Mission
From Seed to Service

At The Produce Ambassador, we believe that collaboration is the key to a thriving food system. Our mission is to provide strategic insights, innovative solutions, and educational outreach that connect the dots between field, food, and fork.

From seed developers and farmers to chefs and nonprofit leaders, we work with a diverse range of clients to create actionable strategies that drive results. Our vision is a world where every link in the produce value chain, from seed to service, works together to build a more sustainable, equitable, and delicious future.

Trusted Expertise, Proven Results

Jill’s unique skill set — combining culinary expertise, agricultural knowledge, and sustainability advocacy — makes her a trusted advisor in the produce industry. Here’s a snapshot of her credentials:

EDUCATION

  • Culinary Institute of America (Graduate with Honors)

  • University of Massachusetts Amherst (B.A.)

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

  • Corporate Executive Chef & Director of Business Development, Naturipe Farms

  • Executive Chef, DreamWorks Studios

  • Executive Sous Chef, The Ross School

LEADERSHIP & ADVOCACY

  • Chair, Executive Committee, LA Food Policy Council

  • Former Board Member, Produce Marketing Association (PMA)

  • Certified NR-EMT and Animal Rescue Volunteer

Beyond the Plate

When she’s not working, Jill is an avid traveler, having visited all seven continents in search of new flavors and culinary inspiration. She’s also deeply committed to giving back, serving on the boards of several Los Angeles-based animal rescue organizations and advocating for sustainable food systems.

For Jill, food isn’t just a profession—it’s a passion. And that passion drives everything she does.

Let’s Connect and Create Something Extraordinary

Whether you’re looking to innovate, educate, or collaborate, Jill and The Produce Ambassador are here to help. Let’s work together to build a more connected and sustainable food system.