Stephen R. Avera, 52, has been Executive Vice President and Secretary and General Counsel of Flowers Foods since May 2008. Mr. Avera previously served as Senior Vice President and Secretary and General Counsel from September 2004 until May 2008, Secretary and General Counsel from February 2002 until September 2004, and as Vice President and General Counsel of Flowers Bakeries from July 1998 to February 2002. Mr. Avera also previously served as an associate and assistant general counsel of Flowers Industries from February 1986 to July 1998.