Brian Deck has is back at the helm as interim president and chief executive officer of JBT Corporation, following Tom Giacomini’s decision that health concerns and recovery priorities make it impossible for him to resume the position after taking several months of medical leave. He has also resigned from the board of directors, and a search for a permanent chief executive officer has been initiated.
The Chicago, Illinois-headquartered food processing machinery and airport equipment company’s FoodTech division is a leader in the production and supply of freezing, cooling, chilling, drying, proofing and steaming systems. Its Frigoscandia and Northfield spiral freezing lines are highly regarded in the international frozen food industry.
Alan Feldman will continue in his role as non-executive chairman of JBT Corporation. Matt Meister, vice president and chief financial officer for JBT Protein, has been named interim chief financial officer. Meister joined JBT in May of 2019 and has responsibility for all finance activity for the protein division within the FoodTech segment.
“Over the past few months, Brian and the senior management team have demonstrated outstanding leadership of JBT and we are confident in their ability to continue executing the company’s strategy while the board conducts a search for a successor,” said Feldman. “I look forward to continuing to work with Brian and to leveraging his financial and operational expertise as we focus on ensuring the continued health and safety of our employees and serving our customers.”
Feldman added: “We owe Tom a great debt of gratitude for spearheading JBT’s transformation over the past seven years. Under his leadership, the company has generated a significant increase in shareholder value, while laying a strong foundation from which to continue delivering for stakeholders. On behalf of everyone at JBT, I send my very best wishes to Tom, including the sincere hope for his improved health.”
