Schwan’s Consumer Brands North America Inc., Bloomington, Minn., said it appointed Travis Bautz as vice president in charge of a newly formed Product Innovation team. A 15-year-plus veteran at The Schwan Food Company, Bautz has served in each of Schwan's three major divisions (foodservice, consumer brands and home service), and most recently was vice president of marketing for bakery.

Schwan’s said the Product Innovation team will be responsible for innovation platform ideas that are 18 to 24 months away from launch. The business currently includes Freschetta, Red Baron, Tony’s and Wolfgang Puck frozen pizzas; Mrs. Smith’s and Edwards frozen cakes and pies; Asian Sensations frozen entrees and appetizers; and Larry’s frozen potato specialties.

Bautz will report to Dan Hammer, senior vice president of marketing. Joining Bautz will be Kara Van Kleek, director, New Products; Marc Cudeyre, manager, New Products; Jennifer Kallemeyn, associate manager, Innovation; and Steffany Meyers, senior administrative assistant.