ST. LOUIS — Terence E. Block has been named president and chief operating officer of Post Holdings, Inc., effective Jan. 1, 2012. The move comes in conjunction with the previously announced separation of Ralcorp Holdings, Inc. and the Post cereal business. Mr. Block also will join the board of directors of Post Holdings following completion of the separation.

Ralcorp said Mr. Block will oversee the implementation of Post Holdings’ strategic plan of growing its most important brands, improving innovation, extending Post’s portfolio of brands into adjacent categories and continuing to grow Post’s presence among Hispanic consumers.

“I am pleased that Terry is joining the Post Holdings management team and Board,” said William P. Stiritz, chairman of Ralcorp. Mr. Stiritz is set to become chief executive officer of Post once it is spun-off. “Terry’s extensive operating and marketing experience will greatly benefit Post Holdings as we embark on an independent course for the company. I am confident that as c.o.o., Terry will help drive the innovation, brand extension and growth initiatives that will be key to Post Holdings’ future success. I also look forward to the insight and expertise Terry will bring to his role on the board as we seek to create value for our shareholders.”

Mr. Block currently is president of Nestle Purina’s North American pet food business. Previously, he was c.o.o. of North American Pet Foods for Ralston Purina Co. Prior to his role as c.o.o., he was executive vice-president of Ralston Purina Pet Products and vice-president of marketing for Dog Food. Mr. Block joined the marketing group of the former Ralston Purina Co. in 1977 as assistant product manager, and subsequently he held a number of increasingly important marketing positions, including product manager and group director. Prior to joining Ralston Purina Co., Mr. Block worked at Procter & Gamble and Pet Incorporated.

He received an undergraduate degree from Earlham College and a master’s degree in business administration from Washington University.