People

July 22, 2024 (Piumazzo, Modena, Italy)

Proxaut has named Mr. Michele Riva General Manager of Proxaut overseeing brand operations which include engineering, manufacturing, sales and marketing. 

Riva brings extensive strategic expertise with a career spanning over 15 years in the protein processing technology field. Holding senior management roles in both Italy and the United States, Riva has been a key member of the global Middleby team for more than two years, contributing to the company's success in automation solutions.

This appointment underscores Proxaut's commitment to innovation and expanding their offerings to improve process efficiencies, enhance sanitation, optimize labor, and ensure employee safety.  “By addressing current production challenges and anticipating future needs of foods and non-food manufacturers, under Michele’s leadership, Proxaut is poised to continue to make significant strides in the automated guided vehicle sector,” said Jean Luc Dreano, Vice President of Integration Middleby Food Processing. 

Proxaut AGVs are Middleby’s mobility solution linking all equipment in an automated and controlled industrial process from meat preparation, thermal processing to packaging, palettization and warehousing, including product and equipment sanitary washing.  

Former President Mr. Stefano Ballotti will transition into an advisory capacity, where he will provide valuable technical support and guidance. Riva and Ballotti have a history of collaboration, demonstrating complementary skills and shared vision which will facilitate a smooth transition and continued success.