Procurement Pioneer Steps Aside After Four Decades (Image Credits: Unsplash)
Thomasville, Ga. – Flowers Foods, Inc. promoted Bret Hathaway to vice president of procurement and commodities, filling the position vacated by Miles Dennis upon his retirement after 41 years with the company.[1][2]
Procurement Pioneer Steps Aside After Four Decades
Miles Dennis retired on January 31, marking the end of a remarkable tenure that began in 1984. He started as a staff auditor and advanced through roles that showcased his versatility across finance and operations.
Dennis transitioned to senior auditor before taking on plant accounting responsibilities as assistant controller at Atlanta Baking Co., Flowers Foods’ largest baking facility at the time. His first procurement position arrived in 1991. Responsibilities grew steadily from there.[1]
Dennis contributed to the design, construction, and deployment of the company’s initial SAP system. He returned to procurement leadership in 2003 as director and later senior director of ingredients procurement. Promotion to vice president followed in 2014.
Throughout his career, Dennis co-chaired the American Bakers Association’s NextGenBakers committee and served on its Commodity Ag Policy Committee. His departure closes a chapter defined by steady progression and industry engagement.[2]
Hathaway’s Rapid Rise Signals Strong Internal Talent
Bret Hathaway joined Flowers Foods in 2022 as senior director of commodities and risk management. The company quickly recognized his capabilities, leading to this executive promotion less than four years later.
Prior experience equipped him well for the demands of commodities oversight. He most recently directed the global commodities and risk management team at Lamb Weston.[1]
- Held positions at Conagra Brands, including manager of agricultural procurement and risk management, as well as procurement manager.
- Began career as a grain production specialist trainee at AgSystems.
Hathaway holds an associate degree in agricultural technology, a bachelor’s in agriculture and applied economics with a focus on agribusiness management, and a master’s in agricultural and applied economics – all from Virginia Tech. He also earned a Series 3 Commodities License from the National Futures Association.
Navigating Commodities in a Dynamic Bakery Sector
The procurement and commodities role at Flowers Foods centers on sourcing ingredients and managing risks for a major player in packaged bakery products. Hathaway steps into a position critical to supply chain stability amid fluctuating markets.
Dennis’ long service highlighted the value of institutional knowledge in these functions. His evolution from auditing to procurement leadership mirrored the company’s growth.
Hathaway’s external expertise from Lamb Weston and Conagra complements Flowers Foods’ internal systems, including SAP deployments overseen by predecessors like Dennis. This blend promises continuity with fresh perspectives.
Key Takeaways
- Bret Hathaway’s promotion fills a vital gap left by Miles Dennis’ 41-year career.
- Hathaway brings global commodities leadership from Lamb Weston and Conagra Brands.
- Dennis advanced from auditor to VP, contributing to ABA committees and SAP implementation.
Flowers Foods maintains its focus on robust supply chain management through this transition. Experienced hands like Hathaway’s ensure resilience in ingredient sourcing and risk mitigation. How might this change influence the company’s strategy? Share your views in the comments.
