John Perruccio was named to the newly created role of Middleby Group president, strategic channel development. David Abi succeeds Perruccio president of Southbend.

In his new role, Perruccio will focus on developing initiatives and aligning dealer activities with the goal of accelerating growth with Middleby dealer partners. His responsibilities include spearheading dealer strategies and programs, leading dealer sales and training activities at the Middleby Innovation Kitchens in Dallas and launching new Middleby technologies and solutions into the marketplace with our partners. John will also continue to oversee Crown Steam Group.

In becoming president of Southbend, Abi expands his responsibilities within Middleby. Earlier this year, he was named president of Glimek and Sveba Dahlen, a European Middleby baking brand. Abi now oversees the three brands.

John joined Middleby in 2003 and has held several senior management positions within the company, most recently Group President of Southbend, Crown, and Middleby Brand Sales. David joined the Middleby sales team in 2011 and was quickly promoted to leadership positions. Most recently he was President of Middleby brands of CookTek, Carter-Hoffmann, Doyon and Nu-Vu.