Premier Foods has appointed Geoff Eaton as chief operating officer in a bid to accelerate the business’ transformation strategy.

The firm said that although it is delivering on its cost reduction and divestiture plans, additional steps are being taken to speed up the process.

Premier said that due to the different challenges and opportunities facing its grocery and bread businesses, they would in future be managed as two distinct divisions.  

For bread, a key focus will be on how to unlock future value for the category, as well as addressing the category challenges faced by the division.

Within grocery, Premier said it will look to continue to build momentum behind its branded portfolio.

Eaton, formerly CEO of Uniq, will report to Michael Clarke, chief executive officer.