Kari-Out Company, a manufacturer, importer and nationwide distributor of sauces, paper, aluminum and plastic products in the restaurant takeout industry announced a series of important hiring moves that will significantly contribute to Kari-Out’s strategic efforts to accelerate growth through product innovation, strong supplier relations, and talented leadership.
NCC Automated Systems announced Tom Luft has joined the company as Director of Sales and Applications Engineering. Luft will lead and align the team according to sales strategies, grow existing customer relationships and support new opportunities. He brings more than 20 years of experience in the conveyor industry and will report to John French, Director of Systems Engineering, NCC Automated Systems.
Verde Farms, a pioneer and leading U.S. provider of 100% grass-fed, 100% pasture-raised, organic beef for retail, club, and foodservice, has nearly tripled its workforce in the last 18 months. Following minority investment from Manna Tree Partners, completion of its Series A, and its highest annual sales increase to date (31%), Verde is intensifying its focus on team growth, including the addition of corporate leaders across the organization with deep meat and CPG experience.
FiveStar Gourmet Foods, Makers of Simply Fresh, is bringing aboard proven produce industry leader Michael Solomon as president, effective immediately. Reporting to CEO Tal Shoshan, Solomon will oversee all day-to-day operations out of the company’s Ontario, California, headquarters. Shoshan will continue to oversee the company’s innovation and strategic growth.
Hormel Foods announced the appointment of Jacinth Smiley as group vice president of corporate strategy. Smiley will report to Jim Snee, chairman of the board, president and chief executive officer of Hormel Foods.
The American Frozen Food Institute (AFFI) announced today the addition of Elissa McLerran Gilliam as Senior Director of Public Policy. AFFI advocates on behalf of the $65.1 billion frozen food industry before legislative and regulatory entities, elevates the attributes of frozen foods and drives solutions for innovation by providing opportunities for industry leaders to convene.
HP Hood has hired Robbie Lock as its new Sustainability Manager. This announcement comes as the company celebrates its 175th year with continued innovation, growth, and a renewed commitment to sustainability.
Fresh prepared food manufacturer Bakkavor has appointed industry veteran Peter Laport as president and CEO of Bakkavor USA. Joining the Charlotte, N.C.-based North American headquarters in late 2020, Peter brings a wealth of leadership experience to the position from previous roles in fresh food operations.
NCC Automated Systems has named John French as director of systems engineering. In his new role, he will oversee the sales, applications and project management teams by providing his 22 years of packaging automation experience and leadership to projects from sales through execution. He will report to Jason Link, General Manager, NCC Automated Systems.
