The Topps Company has promoted Michael Brandstaedter to the role of chief operational officer from his previous position as vice president and general manager, global confectionery. Brandstaedter will continue to report directly to Topps chief executive officer and president Ryan O'Hara.

Prior to joining Topps in 2009, Brandstaedter was senior director of marketing at Kraft Foods. He also served as brand manager for Life Savers Candy at Nabisco.

In his new role, Brandstaedter will assist with-cross company operational efforts and endeavors while maintaining his role running worldwide Bazooka Candy Brands, the confectionary division of Topps. 

"Mike brings a special blend of marketing and management skills as well as a real focus on enhancing innovation to this role," says O'Hara. "He has done a terrific job expanding our confectionary businesses and is the ideal person to help me and the rest of our teams as we continue to build and transform this one-of-a-kind company."