National processed meats supplierBar-S Foods, Phoenix, said it namedWarren Panico as president and chief operating officer effective immediately.

Panico is a 14-year company veteran who has managed Bar-S operations and distribution functions, and more recently, for Bar-S sales and marketing activities. Panico will report to the Chairman & CEO Tim Day and will gradually assume all responsibilities for the day-to-day operations of the company and its seven brands. 
 
“Warren’s appointment is an important step to ensure that our organization is properly structured for the future with sound leadership succession in place,” said Tim Day. "We are certain that Warren’s vast experience and capabilities will prove invaluable in this new position.”

A unit of Mexico'sSigma Alimentos, Bar-S Foods operates five production plants and several warehouses and direct-distribution centers. Its product line includes franks, lunchmeats, bacon, dinner sausages, corn dogs, hams and dairy products.  It employs more than 2,400 people and markets seven brands including, Bar-S, FUD, Longmont, La Chona, Nortenita, Playero and El Cazo.