James K. Pool III Named President of TurboChef

James K. Pool III has been named President of TurboChef, a division of The Middleby Corporation (NASDAQ: MIDD). In his new position he will direct the day-to-day sales and operations for TurboChef, a top speed cooking oven brand, based in Carrollton, Texas.

"James’ impeccable track record speaks for itself, and he has proven to be an asset to both TurboChef and The Middleby Corporation,” said Selim A. Bassoul, Chairman and Chief Executive. "Under James’ leadership, TurboChef has risen to be the most respected brand and world leader in speed cooking. James has been instrumental in pioneering ventless products for the kitchen, including the world’s first ventless conveyor.”

James replaces Paul Lehr who is retiring.

Joining TurboChef in 1995, James has been the principal engineer for TurboChef over the past decade. He also led procurement, customer service and manufacturing, overseeing each of these facets of the TurboChef business while developing the world’s leading rapid cook technologies.

James brings a background of not only engineering, but of hands-on restaurant experience to his new position. Prior to joining TurboChef, he cooked professionally in hotels and restaurants. His chef experience has influenced him to know the TurboChef business from both a culinary and cooking technology standpoint.

James received his degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Wyoming.

About The Middleby Corporation

The Middleby Corporation is a global leader in the foodservice equipment industry. The company develops, manufactures, markets and services a broad line of equipment used for commercial food cooking, preparation and processing. The company's leading equipment brands serving the commercial foodservice industry include Anets®, Blodgett®, Blodgett Combi®, Beech Ovens®, Bloomfield®, Carter Hoffmann®, CookTek®, CTX®, Doyon®, FriFri®, Giga®, Holman®, Houno®, Jade®, Lang®, MagiKitch'n®, Middleby Marshall®, Nu-Vu®, PerfectFry®, Pitco Frialator®, Southbend®, Star®, Toastmaster® Turbochef® and Wells®. The company’s leading equipment brands serving the food processing industry include Alkar®, Cozzini®, MP Equipment®, and RapidPak®. The Middleby Corporation has been recognized by Forbes Magazine as one of the Best Small Companies in 2008, 2009 and 2010.

For further information about Middleby, visit www.middleby.com.