QualiTech Names Rick Pedersen Chief Executive Officer

QualiTech, a leading global manufacturer of ingredient solutions, has appointed Rick Pedersen as its new Chief Executive Officer. With over 20 years of experience in the specialty ingredients industry, Pedersen brings a wealth of knowledge and a proven track record to the role. His expertise in sales, finance, and operations, combined with his focus on strategy and innovation, is expected to accelerate QualiTech's growth and solidify its position as an industry leader.

Pedersen's appointment comes as QualiTech aims to capitalize on existing opportunities and expand into adjacent products to reach both new and existing customers. As the company's majority owner, MidOcean Partners believes that Pedersen's deep understanding of consumer preferences and market trends will be instrumental in driving QualiTech's next phase of growth. With his leadership, the company plans to leverage its robust ingredient portfolio and further establish its leading position in the ingredients market.

QualiTech has built a strong reputation for delivering innovative solutions and maintaining a commitment to quality, technology, and service. The company's presence spans across the food, animal nutrition, and agronomy markets, where it supplies a diverse range of customers with value-added ingredients. Pedersen aims to continue driving innovation, optimizing operations, and refining QualiTech's commercial strategy to support sustainable long-term growth.

The appointment of Pedersen follows the departure of Mike Hodgens, who led the successful transition of QualiTech from family to private equity ownership. Hodgens' leadership played a significant role in solidifying QualiTech's market position and driving consistent growth across segments. The company is now positioned to capitalize on a range of new opportunities, thanks to Hodgen's efforts.

Pedersen's previous roles include President of Ornua Ingredients North America, President and CEO of Agrana Fruit North America, and various leadership positions at Fonterra, Nestle, and Novartis Consumer Health. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Economics from the University of Wisconsin.

Headquartered in Chaska, Minnesota, QualiTech was founded in 1967. The company specializes in providing value-added ingredient solutions that meet complex taste, appearance, texture, and functional attribute requirements for customers in the food, animal nutrition, and agronomy sectors. With a commitment to promoting the health and wellbeing of people, animals, and the environment, QualiTech serves market-leading customers in CPG, livestock, and specialty crop end-markets. The company operates two manufacturing facilities and three land parcels in Chaska, with an additional co-manufacturing partner in California.

MidOcean Partners, the majority owner of QualiTech and a New York-based alternative asset manager, focuses on middle-market private equity and alternative credit investments. Since its establishment in 2003, MidOcean Private Equity has targeted investments in high-quality middle-market companies in consumer and business services sectors. In 2009, the company launched MidOcean Credit, which manages alternative credit strategies, collateralized loan obligations, and customized separately managed accounts.

With the appointment of Rick Pedersen as CEO, QualiTech is poised for continued growth and success in the global ingredients market. Pedersen's extensive experience and strategic leadership will undoubtedly drive innovation and propel the company to new heights.