ATCHISON, KANSAS, U.S. — MGP announced on Sept. 29 the appointment of Randy Schrick to the newly expanded position of vice-president of production and engineering effective immediately.

In his new role, Schrick will support the company’s long-term growth plans by assuming leadership of all production activities, in addition to his previous engineering leadership responsibilities. Among his priorities is using his leadership abilities and expertise to develop the skills and capabilities of others within the organization.

“Randy’s credentials and professional accomplishments are extraordinary,” said MGP President and Chief Executive Officer Gus Griffin. “His leadership qualities, combined with his vast experience and proficiencies in every aspect of our processes, make him ideal for mentoring others in the art and science of producing the highest quality alcohol products and ingredients for our customers.”

Schrick most recently served as vice-president of engineering since June 2009 and held the position of MGP’s interim co-CEO from December 2013 to July 2014. He also served as president of the company’s Pekin, Illinois, U.S., joint venture operation, Illinois Corn Processing, LLC, from November 2009 to December 2011.

Starting as a distillery shift manager in 1973, Schrick worked his way up through the ranks at the company, building on his unique skills and talents and strengthening his business acumen every step of the way. He performed a host of management, production and engineering responsibilities through a series of top company leadership positions. These included roles as vice president of operations, plant manager, and corporate director of distillery products manufacturing. He additionally has been a master distiller for over 20 years.

Schrick has a bachelor’s of science degree in physics from Washburn University, Topeka, Kansas, U.S., and a bachelor’s of science degree in chemical engineering from Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas, U.S.