Kraft Heinz Tuesday named industry veteran Steve Cahillane as its new CEO, ahead of the packaged goods giant's split into two independent public entities.

Cahillane, 61, will join the new role effective January 1, succeeding Carlos Abrams-Rivera who will serve as an advisor until March 6.

In September, Kraft Heinz announced it will split into two companies, one focused on groceries and the other on sauces and spreads.

"I am honored to be joining Kraft Heinz as CEO at such a pivotal and exciting time," Cahillane said in a statement. "Like millions of people around the world, I have a deeply personal connection to the Kraft Heinz brands, dating back to my childhood."

"I’ve devoted my entire career to building brands, and the opportunity to do the same with Kraft Heinz’s iconic portfolio is a dream come true," Cahillane continued.

Cahillane brings a wealth of industry experience to Kraft Heinz, having most recently served as Chairman, President and CEO of Kellanova until its recent acquisition by Mars, Incorporated, Kraft Heinz said.

During his time at the helm of Kellanova, Cahillane led the company through a period of transformative growth, overseeing the expansion of the company’s iconic global brand portfolio, including Pringles®, Cheez-It®, Pop-Tarts®, Kellogg’s® (International) and other beloved household staples.

He also led Kellogg Company through the successful separation of its North American cereal business and the launch of Kellanova, a global snacking powerhouse.

Over the course of his 30-plus-year career, Cahillane has held senior executive roles at The Nature’s Bounty Co., The Coca-Cola Company and AB InBev.