The four new members of ABA’s 2010-12 board of directors will join top leaders from across the baking industry who volunteer time to develop consensus policies that improve the government environment and overall health of the baking industry.

The four new members of ABA’s 2010-12 board of directors will join top leaders from across the baking industry who volunteer time to develop consensus policies that improve the government environment and overall health of the baking industry.

The American Bakers Association, Washington, D.C., names Howard “Robin” Alton III, president and CEO of the Pan-O-Gold Baking Co., as ABA’s first vice chairman, succeeding Gary Prince, president of Bimbo Bakeries USA. Prince is stepping away from the executive committee and board of directors. The vacated second vice chairman role has been assumed by Fred Penny, executive vice president at Bimbo Bakeries USA. These changes will be formally considered at the association’s 2011 convention, which takes place Mar. 26-30 at the J.W. Marriott San Antonio Hill Country in San Antonio, Texas.

John Paterakis, president of H&S Bakery, also will transition off the board, with William Paterakis replacing him as the company’s new representative. As past ABA chairmen, both Prince and Paterakis will continue to serve as the ABA Board in ex-officio roles.

“ABA is forever indebted to John Paterakis for the long service, hard work and leadership he has provided to the industry,” says Robb MacKie, ABA president and CEO. “ABA would not be the strong organization it is today without Mr. Paterakis’ strong guiding hand and service. It is comforting to know that in addition to Bill, ABA will still benefit from John’s perspective.”

Also joining the board is Barry McLean, president of ABA’s newest bakery member, Canada Bread/Maple Leaf Bakery. “We were thrilled to welcome Canada Bread into the family this summer,” MacKie says.

Burford president Fred Springer’s role as BEMA representative on the ABA Board expired at the close of IBIE 2010. Therefore, AMF president Ken Newsome succeeds Springer as the board’s new BEMA representative.

“Under Fred’s leadership, the relationship between ABA and BEMA has grown extremely close. His dedication and devotion to the industry and ABA are greatly appreciated,” MacKie says.