Consumer packaged goods giant Kraft Foods Inc., Northfield, Ill., identified leaders for its global snacks and North American grocery companies -- in advance of the company's planned 2012 spin-off.

In December, Kraft said W. Anthony (Tony) Vernon, executive vice president and president, Kraft Foods North America, will eventually lead the $17 billion North American grocery company as chief executive officer. John  Cahill, an industrial partner with Ripplewood Holdings LLC, will serve as non-executive chairman.

Crain's Chicago Business reported earlier this month that Kraft has named additional executives to Nor th American grocery business posts. Effective upon the split, North American grocery officials will include ...

... Marc Firestone as executive vice president for corporate and legal affairs, and general counsel;
... Michael Hsu as executive vice president and chief commercial officer, in charge of sales, foodservice, Puerto Rico and export markets;
... Sam Rovit as executive vice president of strategy (strategy, mergers and acquisitions);

Kraft said it will hire two additional executives to lead North American supply chain and North American research, development and quality functions.

Other business leaders will include ...

... Timothy McLevish as executive vice president and chief financial officer;
... Dino Bianco as executive vice president and president, Canada;
... Nicholas Meriggioli as executive vice president and president, Oscar Mayer;
... George Zoghbi as executive vice president and president, cheese and dairy.