David B. Durkee, who served as secretary-treasurer for the Bakery, Confectionery, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers (BCTGM) since 1998, is the union’s new president after the BCTGM’s General Executive Board approved his nomination. He succeeds Frank Hurt, who retired Jan. 1 after 20 years in office.

Durkee began his career in 1973 as a baker at Lewis Brothers Bakery in Evansville. He has held various local, regional and national offices, including BCTGM director of organizing. He holds a master's degree from Indiana State University and is a graduate of the Harvard Trade Union Program. 

The board also approved Steve Bertelli as secretary-treasurer. He previously served as BCTGM vice president. He began his union career in 1986 as a shift leader at Mel-O-Cream International in Decatur, Ill., and also served in several local regional and national offices.