John Z. Blazevich

For more than a quarter of a century, John Z. Blazevich worked for Contessa Premium Foods as founder, President and CEO. In his leadership role, he pioneered the field of environmentally conscious frozen food manufacturing by constructing the world’s first Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED)-certified frozen food factory. The 115,000-square-foot facility was built in Los Angeles. Under John Z. Blazevich's leadership, the plant instituted such green features as a solar energy system and a specially designed truck loading dock that prevents the loss of refrigerated air into the atmosphere. Further, the company purchased carbon offset credits to ensure the carbon neutrality of the facility. After growing his company, he moved on to the VIVA! Food Group, a processor of farm-raised shrimp.

Complementing his environmentally friendly accomplishments, John Blazevich engaged in philanthropic activities through Contessa. The company contributed well over $100 thousand dollars in relief funds for victims of the Indian Ocean Tsunami that hit Indonesia and Thailand on Dec 26, 2004. They also contributed tens of thousands of dollars to benefit those effected by Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans and to a Beach Boys Concert in Galveston, Texas to benefit those impacted by Hurricane Ike.

Before building his career in the food industry, John Z. Blazevich immigrated to the United States from his native Sarajevo in 1958. He earned his bachelor of science in finance and marketing from the University of Southern California. Mr. Blazevich honed his business skills while working with a major food company, and established Contessa in 1984.

To learn more go to:

https://www.john-blazevich.com/