Sutherlin resigned as Joy’s CEO a month ago, with succession plans first made back in March.
The coal producer was suitably pleased with adding Sutherlin to the team.
“Sutherlin brings to the Peabody board decades of experience in the extraction industry as well as an unparalleled depth of knowledge of mining technologies," Peabody chairman and CEO Gregory Boyce said.
"His experience as the head of a global, industry-leading company will add significant value to Peabody's own global platform."
Sutherlin was president and CEO of Joy Global from 2006 to late 2013.
He was previously president and CEO for Joy Mining Machinery starting from 2003.
Edward Doheny II succeeded Sutherlin as Joy’s chief on December 20.