B&G Foods Inc. names Michael Sands to the newly created position of executive vice president of snacks. Sands joined B&G Foods in October 2013, following B&G Foods’ acquisition of Rickland Orchards, which Sands co-founded with Jason Cohen. Rickland Orchards, whose products include Greek yogurt-coated granola bars and bites, was the fourth snack-based acquisition by B&G Foods since October 2012.

In addition to co-founding Rickland Orchards and serving as its chief operating officer, Sands previously served as president and CEO of the Balance Bar Co., chief marketing and operations officer of the Snapple Beverage Group and chief marketing officer and director of international sales of Ben & Jerry’s. Sands was the co-founder and chief executive officer of LesserEvil Brand Snacks.

States David L. Wenner, president and CEO of B&G Foods, “Michael has been a very strong addition to B&G Foods’ management team and has played an important role in the integration of Rickland Orchards into the B&G Foods family. His experience in all aspects of managing snack brands will greatly benefit our company.”

B&G Foods also says that, at month end, Jason Cohen will transition from executive vice president of club channel to become an outside strategic adviser to B&G Foods. In this capacity, Cohen will continue to assist B&G Foods with the implementation of its sales strategy across its entire portfolio of brands.

“We thank Jason for his tireless efforts and the passion, energy and creative thinking he has brought to B&G Foods,” states Wenner. “We are very pleased that our partnership will continue as we work together to seek further growth opportunities for our brands.”