THOMASVILLE, GA. — Amos Ryals McMullian Jr. has been named to the newly created role of chief operating officer at Flowers Foods, Inc. He most recently was chief strategy officer.

In his new role, Mr. McMullian will be responsible for executing the company’s strategies to drive growth and expand margins through cost savings and operating efficiencies under Project Centennial. He will oversee the company’s two business units (Fresh Packaged Bread and Snacking/Specialty), supply chain and sales. In addition, he will maintain oversight of corporate strategy and ventures and communications.

“Over the past year, Flowers has been transitioning to a new organizational structure designed to remove complexity and costs from our business and provide greater focus on the consumer,” said Allen L. Shiver, president and chief executive officer. “The appointment of a c.o.o. increases operational visibility and accountability, making us a more effective organization. We are pleased to have an executive of Ryals’ caliber in this important new leadership role.

“Throughout his 15-year tenure at Flowers, Ryals has developed a deep understanding of our business and operations, successfully identified exciting new areas for growth like Dave’s Killer Bread and proven his ability to drive meaningful change and lead our team. Over the last two years, he has directed the company’s transformation under Project Centennial. As c.o.o., he will be responsible for executing our long-term strategic initiatives, driving operating results that enhance profitability, and holding our team accountable for results.”

Mr. McMullian joined Flowers Foods in 2003 as associate general counsel. He later was promoted to vice-president of mergers and acquisitions and had been chief strategy officer since September 2017. Prior to joining Flowers Foods he was a corporate associate in the Business Practice Group at Jones Day.

He received a bachelor’s degree in finance and real estate, a master’s degree in business administration, and a juris doctorate, all from Florida State University.

 “We’ve made good progress under Project Centennial, but there is much more to be done,” Mr. McMullian said. “In addition to identifying new avenues for growth, my immediate focus will be on generating additional cost savings across all areas of the company. Working closely with Allen and the leadership team, we intend to take decisive action to further improve our efficiency and profitability while fostering a working environment that is both challenging and exciting. I am honored to serve our shareholders, customers, board of directors and employees in this capacity. I look forward to helping our team achieve the company’s strategic objectives to strengthen our competitive position, drive revenue growth and ultimately enhance shareholder value.”

Mr. McMullian’s father, Amos R. McMullian, is a longtime executive at Flowers Foods who has been chairman emeritus since 2006. He earlier was c.e.o.