Middleby names Mark Sal Man as food processing business CEO

Middleby names Mark Sal Man as food processing business CEO

Middleby Names Mark Salman CEO of Food Processing Business Ahead of Spin-Off

The Middleby Corporation (NASDAQ: MIDD) announced on February 26, 2026, that Mark Salman will assume the role of Chief Executive Officer of its Food Processing Group (FPG) upon the completion of its spin-off as an independent public company in the second quarter of 2026. Salman, currently President of FPG, has led the division since 2018 and will continue in his existing role during the separation process as announced.

Under Salman's leadership, the Food Processing Group has achieved significant growth, expanding revenue from $390 million in 2018 to $850 million in 2025, driven by 16 strategic acquisitions and organic development according to company reports. The division, which provides automation solutions for industrial protein, bakery, and snack processing, has maintained industry-leading adjusted EBITDA margins. Tim FitzGerald, CEO of The Middleby Corporation, highlighted Salman's "proven track record of operational excellence" and deep customer relationships as key qualifications for leading the newly independent entity as stated.

Mark Bowie has been appointed as Chief Operating Officer of the Food Processing business, bringing over 25 years of manufacturing and operational experience, including leadership roles at In-Place Machining and LPW Group as reported. The spin-off is part of Middleby's broader strategic initiative to create three focused businesses, aiming to enhance shareholder value through operational specialization and growth opportunities according to company announcements.

Salman emphasized the Food Processing Group's "industry-leading brands and innovative automation technologies," noting the spin-off will provide "enhanced focus and flexibility" for expansion into adjacent markets as highlighted. The transaction remains subject to regulatory and market conditions, with completion targeted for Q2 2026.

This leadership transition underscores Middleby's commitment to restructuring its portfolio, aligning with evolving industry demands for automated food production solutions. Investors will closely monitor the spin-off's execution and the standalone business's ability to capitalize on its growth pipeline.