The Massman Companies, a leading manufacturer of industrial packaging machinery, has promoted Mark Suchy to the new position of Senior Vice President, Sales and Marketing. Mr. Suchy will be responsible for the sales and marketing efforts of all of The Massman Companies, which consists of Massman Automation Designs, EDL Packaging, Ideal-Pak Pase Group, and DTM Packaging and Custom Automation.

C.H. Guenther & Son (“CHG”), a leading producer of branded and private-label food products, today announced that John D. Buckles has been named President and Chief Executive Officer, effective April 29, 2021. Mr. Buckles, a seasoned commercial and operations executive with a track record of growing food and beverage companies, succeeds Dale W. Tremblay, CHG’s CEO since 2001. Mr. Tremblay will continue an active role as Chairman of CHG’s Board of Directors and will work closely with Mr. Buckles during a transition period. 

Cargill has named Hans Kabat group leader and president of Cargill’s North American protein business, effective May 1, 2021.

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.

The United Fresh Produce Association recently announced its 2021 Retail Produce Manager Awards honorees. Karen O’Dell, produce manager at the Martin’s Super Market in Granger, Indiana--a SpartanNash brand--was among the 25 produce managers recognized for her contributions to the industry.

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.

After a career spanning forty-three years, John Wellenzohn, senior vice president, In-Store Bakery & Deli Direct Chains Division, has announced his retirement from Rich Products.

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.

Dr. Bruno Goussault, Chief Scientist of Cuisine Solutions and the founder of the Culinary Research & Education Academy (CREA), has been awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award (Fauteuil de l’Academie) by the USA Chapter of the Académie Culinaire de France. He was honored worldwide virtually for his unwavering commitment to educating acclaimed and aspiring chefs about the sous vide cooking process.