Perlick Reinforces Transition to Fifth Generation With New President

Perlick, a 107-year-old manufacturer of refrigeration, underbar, and beverage-dispensing equipment, has named Dean Nienhuis as president.

The change reflects a year of brand transformation for the company and is intended to reinforce its Milwaukee roots while highlighting the incoming fifth generation of family leadership that will position Perlick for another century of growth and innovation. “Our roots have always grounded us, but our future is being written by a new generation,” CEO Theodore “TJ” Perlick Molinari said in a news release. “With leadership nurtured from within, a stellar brand, and a driven, forward-thinking team shaping our direction, Perlick is entering its next chapter with momentum, vision, and pride in the city that built us.”

Perlick’s fifth-generation family leadership is now guiding the company forward, blending legacy with modern ambition. TJ Perlick Molinari serves as CEO, David Perlick-Molinari as chief marketing officer, and Robert Perlick-Molinari as creative director. Cousins Mark Bergum, chairman of the board, and Laurie Bergum, shareholder director, continue to steward governance and foster education for the next generation.

Nienhuis adds to that group, bringing experience in strategy, operations, sales, and product development. Most recently, he served as president of SafanDarley North America and he was previously a major in the Wisconsin Army National Guard. He is recognized for building high-performance teams and guiding organizations through accelerated growth.

As president, Nienhuis will report to TJ Molinari and oversee daily operations, cross-functional alignment, and execution of the company’s long-term strategic vision. His leadership is expected to strengthen the company’s focus on design innovation, performance engineering, and products that elevate both commercial hospitality environments and residential luxury spaces.

Perlick also recognized Jeff Schwager, former president and general manager, for his outstanding leadership and contributions. Schwager will continue to serve on Perlick’s board of directors and support the transition.

“With a strong brand, a united family leadership team, and a dynamic group of emerging leaders bringing fresh ideas and passion, Perlick is poised for one of the most transformative chapters in our history,” TJ Molinari added. “We are proud to build that future right here in Milwaukee.”