ELK GROVE VILLAGE, ILL. — Middleby Food Processing announced a series of appointments to its Cozzini and Proxaut brands.

Zach Bearson was named vice president of sales and marketing for Cozzini. He succeeds Jim Gaydusek, who will be retiring.

“Zach is a strong addition to our team and will implement global marketing initiatives to expand our reach and drive growth,” said PJ Samson, group president of Cozzini, Danfotech, Filtration Automation, MP Equipment and Middleby Mexico.

Bearson brings extensive industry experience in business development to his new position. As Cozzini’s vice president of sales and marketing, he will ensure the product portfolio and services continue to meet and exceed customer expectations while capitalizing on emerging opportunities.

Bearson earned his bachelor's degree in from the University of Wisconsin and a marketing and management MBA from Southern Methodist University.

Gaydusek joined the company in 1996 as Northeast region sales manager. He was later promoted to sales director and then to vice president. In each role, Gaydusek was directly responsible for the expansion of territories and international sales growth.

“Jim has had many significant accomplishments over his 27-year career with Cozzini including the advancement of pet food processing lines,” Samson said. “We are very appreciative of Jim’s dedication and are pleased he will continue part time.”

Proxaut announced two senior management appointments. Michele Riva was named sales and marketing director, and Gabriele Macchi was named operations director.

With over 15 years’ experience in protein processing technologies and marketing strategies both in Italy and the United States, Riva will lead sales and service initiatives at Proxaut, delivering the breadth of its innovations. He has been with Middleby for more than a year.

Macchi has been with Proxaut for several years as technical director, where he propelled the team to provide labor saving efficiencies. His vision will continue to direct the brand toward operational excellence in the evolving technological space.