NORTHUMBERLAND, PA. — Bill Earley has been named corporate research chef at Furmano Foods, Inc., a producer of tomatoes, beans and other vegetables for the retail and food service industries.

The addition of Mr. Earley is part of the company's new initiative to foster a culture of innovation and drive future growth. His emphasis on organic foods and fresh ideas fits Furmano’s new purpose, the company said.

Mr. Earley brings to the role experience in recipe development, new product development and food service consultation initiatives. Prior to joining Furmano’s, he was a food technologist for Wyandot Inc. and earlier was lead product development technician for Richelieu Foods. Before that, he was a product development specialist at Stonewall Kitchen and a sous chef at restaurant Honey. Earlier, Mr. Earley spent time with the Midwest Culinary Institute, Greencore USA, Charlie Trotter’s, Cabot Cheese and McDonald’s Corp.

During his career, Mr. Earley has developed recipes for numerous consumer packaged goods companies. He created the best-selling caramel popcorn for a national movie theater chain, the company said.

 “We’re extremely excited to add Chef Earley to the Furmano’s family,” said Yvonne Derr, marketing manager at Furmano Foods. “Bill has a wealth of experience developing food products and recipes that aligned really well with what we’re trying to accomplish with our new focus.”