Cynthia S. Hughes

Pierre Foods is a nationally recognized industry leader in providing fully cooked protein and sandwich products to a wide variety of customers including schools, restaurants, retail supermarkets, vending machines, the military, and convenience stores. It offers more than 1,000 different products, including more than 400 types of full-size and mini sandwiches, in addition to beef, pork, poultry, bakery items, and peanut butter products. Leading the trend towards healthier food options for its nation's youth, it recently rolled out Smart Picks, 60 new items that are reduced fat, reduced sodium or enhanced protein or higher fiber menu options available now for school cafeterias all over the country. The company is currently owned by funds managed by Oaktree Capital Management L.P., a Los Angeles-based investment firm.