PITTSBURGH — Dave Woodward has been promoted to executive vice-president of Heinz North America, a division of the H.J. Heinz Co., effective immediately. He succeeds Scott O’Hara, who left Heinz to pursue other opportunities.

Mr. Woodward most recently was executive vice-president of the company’s Rest of World segment since May 1. Earlier, he was president of the company’s operations in the U.K., Ireland, Africa and the Middle East.

“Dave Woodward is a proven, results-oriented leader who has distinguished himself over the last six years by driving the exceptional performance of our business in the U.K. & Ireland, the company’s second-largest market,” said William R. Johnson, chairman, president and chief executive officer. “I expect Dave to lead Heinz North America to new levels of success by leveraging his proven expertise in marketing and innovation, and his keen understanding of consumer behavior.”