Achievements Pave Way for Role’s Evolution (Image Credits: Unsplash)
Thomasville, Ga. — Flowers Foods Inc., a leading producer of packaged bakery products, revealed plans to eliminate its chief growth officer position as part of an ongoing effort to embed growth strategies deeper into core operations. Terry Thomas, who held the role since its creation in 2023, agreed to step down effective April 24, 2026, following a transition period where his duties shift to other senior executives.[1][2] The move reflects the company’s success in building new competencies, now ready for integration across business units.
Achievements Pave Way for Role’s Evolution
The chief growth officer position emerged in 2023 amid Flowers Foods’ push to accelerate expansion and develop fresh capabilities in innovation and customer engagement. Thomas brought extensive experience from global giants like Unilever and PepsiCo, where he served in high-level customer and sales roles. His tenure advanced the company’s brand portfolio through an expanded innovation pipeline and enhanced revenue management insights.[3]
Chairman and CEO Ryals McMullian praised Thomas’s impact. “Terry has brought tremendous energy, leadership, and experience to our organization,” McMullian stated. “Under his leadership, the role of chief growth officer has fulfilled its purpose.”[1] With these goals met, Flowers Foods decided to dissolve the specialized post rather than prolong it.
Mark Courtney Steps Up with Broader Mandate
Chief Brand Officer H. Mark Courtney, a 43-year veteran of the company, assumes key responsibilities previously under the growth officer. Courtney, in his current role since 2020, oversees major brands and now adds retail customer sales, innovation, and revenue management to his portfolio. He reports directly to McMullian in this expanded capacity.[1]
McMullian expressed strong confidence in Courtney. “Mark is a deeply experienced, long-tenured, and highly respected member of our leadership team,” the CEO noted. “I have full confidence in his ability to lead our brand and growth efforts.”[1] This shift leverages Courtney’s deep institutional knowledge to drive continued progress.
Integration Aligns with Recent Operational Shifts
The decision forms part of broader leadership realignments at Flowers Foods. In February 2026, David Roach took on the newly created chief DSD operations officer role to sharpen direct-store-delivery performance. These changes, under President and COO Heeth Varnedoe, include a new division structure focused on geographic profit-and-loss execution.[3]
Here are key recent adjustments:
- February 2026: D. Anthony Scaglione named chief financial officer.
- February 2026: David Roach appointed chief DSD operations officer.
- March 2026: Terry Thomas departure and chief growth officer role dissolved.
- Ongoing: Operational divisions established for market execution.
Together, these steps pair brand-focused marketing with streamlined operations.
Flowers Foods’ Bakery Empire and Strategic Path
| Key Brands | Description |
|---|---|
| Nature’s Own | Leading white bread and whole grain options |
| Dave’s Killer Bread | Organic, non-GMO breads |
| Canyon Bakehouse | Gluten-free bakery products |
| Wonder Bread | Classic sliced breads |
| Tastykake and Mrs. Freshley’s | Snack cakes and sweets |
Headquartered in Thomasville, Georgia, Flowers Foods ranks among the top U.S. producers of packaged bakery foods, posting 2025 net sales of approximately $5.3 billion. The company operates bakeries nationwide, serving a diverse portfolio that caters to everyday consumers and specialty diets.[1][4]
For fiscal 2026, executives project net sales between $5.163 billion and $5.267 billion, navigating category pressures while investing in brands like Nature’s Own.[5] The leadership evolution supports long-term goals of cost management, innovation, and market strength.
Key Takeaways
- The chief growth officer role, launched in 2023, successfully built capabilities now woven into daily operations.
- Mark Courtney’s expanded duties ensure continuity with seasoned expertise.
- Broad changes position Flowers Foods for efficient growth amid competitive bakery dynamics.
Flowers Foods’ strategic pivot underscores a maturing approach to growth, trading a standalone executive for integrated execution. As the company eyes sustained performance, this reorganization signals confidence in its foundational strengths. What implications do you see for the bakery sector? Share your thoughts in the comments.
