CHICAGO – Triangle Package Machinery Co. announced it promoted longtime employee John Cooke to the role of director of sales, making him a member of the company’s executive team.

Previously the eastern regional sales manager for the packaging equipment manufacturer, Cooke will now lead the company’s sales team.

Cooke began working directly for Triangle 18 years ago, and also represented the company for 12 years prior to that. The company’s leadership describes him as a seasoned packaging machinery professional with extensive industry knowledge and relationships.

“John is a well-respected sales leader, not only within our walls at Triangle, but within the industry,” said N’Gai Merrill, chief operating officer for the company. “Over the years, John has shown exceptional support to both our customers and his peers, and we look forward to seeing him continue to help strengthen our team and business as a whole.”

Before joining Triangle, Cooke worked for his family’s business, Eastern Packaging Associates, for 12 years. During that time, he represented Triangle and other OEMs in an array of segments, including glue systems, metal detection and case packers.

Since joining Triangle in 2004, Cooke has helped the company secure relationships with OEM partners and materials suppliers, per Triangle.