THOMASVILLE, GA. — Craig S. Parr has been named to the newly created position of senior vice-president of finance and chief risk officer at Flowers Foods, Inc. His responsibilities will include commodity hedging and purchasing strategies. The rest of the purchasing department will remain intact, and will report to Mr. Parr. Mr. Parr will report to R. Steve Kinsey, executive vice-president and chief financial officer.
Prior to joining Flowers Foods Mr. Parr spent 20 years at The Andersons, Inc., most recently as vice-president of risk management and food ingredient supply. During his time at The Andersons he was promoted to progressive leadership positions in accounting, purchasing, treasury and risk management.
With wheat flour and other ingredient prices both expensive and volatile, input costs in recent years have factored importantly (and often disadvantageously) in the financial results of Flowers Foods and many other companies in the baking and consumer packaged foods sectors.
“Volatility in the commodities markets in recent years has caused us to focus even more carefully on our hedging and forward buying strategies for ingredients and other goods, and we are continually looking for ways to further improve our practices,” Mr. Kinsey said. “Bringing on someone with Craig’s depth of experience and proven track record with a highly respected commodities-based firm will help us even better manage our purchasing and hedging strategies and risk areas. Craig has shown that he can drive profitability, strengthen financial operations, reduce risk, and develop sound strategies, and we are very pleased that he’s joining our team.”
Mr. Parr has been an active member of national risk management committees and spoke frequently at industry events regarding commodity purchasing and risk topics. He also is on the board of directors at Mobile Meals, Inc. and is a committee member at the National Grain & Feed Association and the Snack Food Association.
Mr. Parr received a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Illinois State University, a master’s degree in business administration from Bowling Green State University and is currently working on a master’s degree in finance. He also holds degrees in information systems and management from Parkland College.