Over the next six months, the company plans to hire an additional 25 team members to work in content, television production and digital media. David Nussbaum, America’s Test Kitchen’s first CEO, said “Over time, our strategy will include launching new shows, updating web sites, expanding online education programs, and adding more social interaction on the company’s websites.”
As part of the company’s expansion initiatives the company announced several executive appointments. Jack Bishop, a long-time editor at America’s Test Kitchen, was promoted to chief creative officer. Bishop will develop new projects in addition to the creative strategy for the “America’s Test Kitchen” television program,Cook’s IllustratedandCook’s Countrymagazines, and America’s Test Kitchen’s digital and book content.
Fran Middleton was promoted to chief digital officer. In this new role, Middleton will build a digital roadmap for all online products related to America’s Test Kitchen,Cook’s IllustratedandCook’s Countryin addition to new initiatives. He oversees the company’s websites, including the relaunchedCook’s Illustratedand the Cooking School. Middleton also is responsible for software development, digital design, product management and e-commerce. Middleton joined the company as vice president of digital products in February 2014. Before joining Boston Common Press, he was vice president of Rue La La, an online retailer of fashion, home, travel and other products.
Jackie McCauley Ford was named CFO effective Dec. 1. McCauley will focus on leveraging growth opportunities and strategic partnerships. Prior to her appointment at America’s Test Kitchen, McCauley was a director of Corporate Finance Group Inc., a financial consulting firm in Boston.
Colleen Zelina will lead professional development initiatives at America’s Test Kitchen as senior vice president of human resources and organizational development. Zelina will join the company from ALM Media, LLC in New York, where she currently serves as senior vice president of human resources.
“This is a very exciting time for America’s Test Kitchen, as we expand our platforms and add new staff, including these very talented members of our executive team,” Nussbaum said. “I am very much looking forward to working with Fran, Jackie, Colleen and the rest of the ATK team in focusing on the expanded size and future growth of the company.”
America’s Test Kitchen is a 2,500-sq.-ft. test kitchen that is staffed by more than three dozen full-time cooks and product testers. The ATK team is known to test recipes as many as 70 times to develop recipes for its viewers and readers.
