Williams is taking over from Vivek Sankaran, who is leaving PepsiCo on April 12 to take over the role of CEO of food retailer Albertsons Cos.
In his new role, Williams’ responsibilities will be extended to include Frito-Lay North America and Quaker Foods North America.
Pepsi chairman and CEO Ramon Laguarta said Williams’ appointment is a testament to the company's ‘strong bench of talent.’
“He has deep knowledge of the industry and our business, and we will greatly benefit from his inspirational leadership, broad customer knowledge, intimacy with consumer trends, and experience developing talent as we build on our already strong foundation,” said Laguarta.
20-year veteran
Williams joined PepsiCo in 2001 as part of its acquisition of Quaker Oats, where he had worked since 1997.
He currently heads Frito-Lay North America’s customer, field and foodservice sales teams – an organization of over 29,000 workers – responsible for go-to-market strategy and execution.
He has also held the roles of division president for the Eastern Division of Frito-Lay, global SVP of PepsiCo’s Walmart business, and oversaw sales for many of PepsiCo’s top food and beverage brands.
Laguarta also praised Sankaran’s contributions to the snack giant.
“Under Vivek’s direction, Frito-Lay expanded its position as a category leader, introduced many new and successful products and delivered excellent performance,” he said.
“We have benefitted from Vivek’s strategic vision and many contributions over the last decade, and are pleased to continue to work with him as he transitions to join one of our largest North American customers.”
