In this episode, Jack is joined by Brittany Cerwin, CFO of Middleby. After years operating across commercial foodservice, food processing, and residential kitchen equipment, Middleby has reshaped its portfolio around its commercial business. Cerwin explains why that focus creates a clearer capital allocation story—and places greater attention on execution.
The discussion moves inside Middleby’s growth model, including restaurant expansion, equipment replacement cycles, aftermarket support, operational excellence, and closer customer relationships. Cerwin also describes investments in connected equipment, IoT, and AI as the company seeks better visibility across the equipment lifecycle.
Her leadership perspective reflects an unusually deep view of the organization. During 15 years at Middleby, Cerwin has experienced acquisitions, controllership, board and investor exposure, and the expansion of the finance organization. Along the way, she has learned to pair accountability with questioning—and personal ownership with a willingness to delegate.