#United States #Corporate Governance #Thomasville #Flowers Foods #Sterling Spainhour

Flowers Foods Welcomes a New Board Member: Sterling A. Spainhour

In a strategic move to enhance its board, Flowers Foods, Inc. has elected Sterling A. Spainhour as a new member, effective October 1, 2025. As the executive vice president and chief legal officer of Southern Company, Spainhour brings a wealth of experience in legal and corporate governance that is expected to fortify the strategic direction of Flowers Foods.

A Wealth of Expertise

Spainhour's impressive background spans over three decades, holding key positions at notable organizations including law firm Jones Day and CNN. His legal acumen particularly shines through in matters related to mergers, acquisitions, and corporate governance, assets that will prove invaluable to Flowers Foods as it continues its evolution in the competitive food market.

"We are thrilled to welcome Sterling as part of our board of directors," expressed Ryals McMullian, the chairman and CEO of Flowers Foods. "Sterling's extensive experience in legal and corporate governance will enhance our ability to navigate the evolving market landscape and drive shareholder value."

At Southern Company, a powerhouse in the American energy landscape, Spainhour oversees various critical functions inclusive of legal, compliance, internal audit, and security. His appointment marks a significant step for Flowers Foods as the company aims to integrate deeper strategic oversight aligned with its corporate ambitions.

Academic Credentials

Spainhour wasn’t just successful in his career, but he also boasts a formidable academic pedigree. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from the University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill, followed by a Master of Business Administration from Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business. He further obtained a Juris Doctor degree from Duke University School of Law, marking him as a leader in the fields of law and business.

In addition to his role at Flowers Foods, Spainhour contributes his insights to various organizations including Gray Media, Atlanta's High Museum of Art, Emory Healthcare Network, and the University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill Arts & Sciences Foundation, showcasing his commitment to community engagement and governance.

About Flowers Foods

Flowers Foods, based in Thomasville, Georgia, stands tall as one of the largest producers of packaged bakery goods in the United States, boasting a stunning revenue of $5.1 billion in net sales for 2024. The company operates numerous bakeries nationwide, marketing popular products under brands like Nature's Own, Dave's Killer Bread, Canyon Bakehouse, and Tastykake, appealing to a diverse consumer base.

As it gears up for future initiatives, the integration of Spainhour into the board represents a forward-thinking strategy for Flowers Foods, aiming to strengthen its market position while enhancing shareholder value. The company is optimistic that Spainhour’s experience and insights will play a pivotal role in accelerating their growth strategies and addressing the challenges in the dynamic food industry landscape.

In conclusion, the addition of Sterling A. Spainhour to the Flowers Foods board aligns perfectly with the company's goal of fostering innovative practices and maintaining its commitment to operational excellence in the baked goods market.