Key Technology, a member of the Duravant family of operating companies, announced the promotion of Bret Larreau to the position of director of Latin America and Asia sales. Larreau is responsible for managing Key’s sales activities in the Latin America, Asia Pacific and Australia/New Zealand regions to bring the company’s digital sorters, vibratory conveyors and other automation systems to food processors and other manufacturers.

In addition to managing sales in these regions, Larreau will continue to support Key’s close relationship with PepsiCo’s global business as their Major Account Manager.

“This InterContinental region is extremely important to Key – we’ve got a strong foundation with experienced sales and service teams and an impressive installed base of equipment. We are positioned for growth with our best-in-class VERYX sorters and Iso-Flo conveyors, since processors in these regions increasingly want sophisticated technologies to improve product quality and food safety as well as yields as they compete globally for business,” said Steve Pellegrino, senior vice president of global sales at Key. “With Bret’s experience in product management and advanced inspection technology development, he is ideally suited to lead these sales teams toward even greater success. He understands our markets and our customers’ applications.

Larreau has more than 30 years of experience with food processing equipment and has been with Key Technology for 15 years. Previously, his positions have included manager of business development and product manager for advanced inspection systems. Before joining Key, he was a senior project manager for integrated packaging systems, and prior to that, he worked in engineering, manufacturing management, sales support management and product management for DSI/Stein, part of FMC FoodTech/JBT. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Engineering from Washington State University.

“I’m excited to help build our momentum in Latin America and the Asia Pacific region in collaboration with our dedicated sales and service teams that are located there,” said Larreau. “As an innovative leader with advanced technologies and world-class support, Key is committed to offering customers the very best solutions to enhance their operations. Right now, many processors are looking to elevate their product quality and food safety to better compete on the world market.