Flowers Foods, Inc. (NYSE: FLO) has announced the departure of Terry Thomas, the company's Chief Growth Officer, effective April 24, 2026. This decision comes as part of a strategic restructuring within the company, as the role of Chief Growth Officer was initially created in 2023 to enhance growth capabilities and build new competencies. With these capabilities now established, Flowers Foods is integrating them into its ongoing business structure. Thomas will remain with the company until the transition of his responsibilities to other senior leaders is complete.

In a statement, Ryals McMullian, Chairman and CEO of Flowers Foods, expressed gratitude for Thomas's contributions, highlighting his leadership and the energy he brought to the organization. Under Thomas's guidance, the Chief Growth Officer role has successfully advanced growth for the company's brand portfolio through an expanded innovation pipeline and strengthened customer relationships.

Following Thomas's departure, Mark Courtney, the Chief Brand Officer, will report directly to McMullian. Courtney, a veteran of 43 years with the company, will take on additional responsibilities, including retail customer sales, innovation, and revenue management, alongside his existing duties managing Flowers' brand portfolio, which includes well-known names such as Nature's Own and Wonder Bread.

This leadership change is part of a broader restructuring aimed at positioning Flowers Foods for future growth. The company has also announced changes within its operations organization, including the appointment of David Roach as Chief DSD Operations Officer and the establishment of a division structure responsible for geographic P&L execution. These strategic moves are designed to enhance the company's operational execution and strengthen its market position.

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