PHOENIX — Rick Peterson has been named executive vice-president of business development at Shadow Beverages and Snacks.

Most recently, Mr. Peterson was president and managing partner at The Catapult Group, a consulting firm specializing in middle-market mergers and acquisitions for various industries. He also has had leadership roles with Pepsi-Cola Bottling, PepsiCo, Inc. and the Sara Lee Corp.’s coffee and tea division.

“Rick’s expertise in growing top-and-bottom line results for food and beverage companies is outstanding,” said George Martinez, president of Shadow Beverages and Snacks. “He will be the driving force behind all sales, marketing, merchandising and account opportunities for Shadow.”