Flowers Foods Inc. said July 2 that Ryals McMullian was appointed to the newly created COO role, effective June 27.

McMullian, who had been chief strategy officer since May 2017, joined the baked goods maker in 2003. He will continue to report to Flowers Foods President and CEO Allen Shiver.

As COO, he will oversee the company's fresh packaged bread and snacking/specialty units, supply chain and sales.

Thomasville, Ga.-based Flowers Foods produces and markets bakery products in the U.S. under brands including Nature's Own, Wonder and Tastykake.