VERNON HILLS, Illinois, U.S. – John L. Fortin to be officially introduced as new President of Probat Inc., the Probat Group of companies in the US. Former President Karl Schmidt leaves Probat effective immediately. Effective July 31, 2015 John L. Fortin was appointed President of Probat Inc. by the BOD of the industry’s leading coffee roasting equipment and technology manufacturer.
Fortin succeeds Karl Schmidt, who had previously served as President. Over the last six months, Schmidt worked with Fortin to conduct a successful and thorough transition of responsibilities.
“We thank Karl Schmidt for his leadership and commitment to Probat, his dedicated service to the coffee industry, and we wish him the best for his future”, comments Wim Abbing, Chairman of the Board of Directors and CEO Probat Group.
New President Fortin brings more than 30 years of experience from the industrial manufacturing sector to his new role having previously served as Vice President and General Manager of a tube mill fabrication business supplying the food & beverage industry amongst others.
Fortin’s business strategy is based on increasing market share through the creation of an enhanced value-added proposition to the customer.
Fortin will continue the company´s tradition to translate and execute the customers’ vision by utilizing the well-established expertise, current technology, and know-how of the Probat Group.
“John Fortin`s track record of execution combined with the team’s in-depth knowledge of the industry makes us confident that Probat’s customers will be well supported also in the future”, says Wim Abbing.
