ConAgra Names Bolles Exec-VP Research

NEW YORK - Mar 7/06 - SNS -- ConAgra Foods named Al Bolles its new executive vice president, Research & Development and Quality.

In this role, he will oversee the company's Product Quality and Development function, including the Centers of Excellence, enterprise quality and product development.

Bolles most recently was head of worldwide research and development for PepsiCo Beverages and Foods. In that position, he led significant expansion of major brands and directed several major product launches. His accomplishments also include expanding technical lab capabilities, developing health and wellness and international expansion platforms for growth, and enhancing PepsiCo brand equity through technical innovation.

Bolles replaces Dr. Pat Verduin, who has led Product Quality & Development at ConAgra Foods since 2002. Verduin announced a personal decision to leave the company last year, and is assisting Al in the transition.