Cincinnati, Ohio, United States, November 2024 – The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR) announced a leadership transition with Mary Ellen Adcock set to take on the role of Chief Merchandising and Marketing Officer, succeeding Stuart Aitken, who will step down from his position at the end of December to pursue other opportunities.
Rodney McMullen, Chairman and CEO of Kroger, expressed confidence in Adcock’s appointment:
“Mary Ellen is a respected leader both within Kroger and our industry. Her deep strategic experience in her past 25 years with Kroger in roles of increasing responsibility will continue to drive value for customers and growth for our business and associates.”
Aitken, who has been instrumental in evolving Kroger’s brand and leading innovative projects such as the integration of dunnhumby and the establishment of 84.51º, will remain in his role until December 31, 2024, ensuring a smooth transition. McMullen commended Aitken’s impact:
“On behalf of the Kroger Board and management team, I want to thank Stuart for his work to evolve Kroger’s brand while bringing exciting, innovative products to our shelves. We wish Stuart and his family all the best as they embark on a new chapter.”
The operations team will maintain stability, with Valarie Jabbar, Kenny Kimball, and Paula Kash continuing in their leadership roles, reporting directly to McMullen.
Mary Ellen Adcock, a 25-year Kroger veteran, has driven strategic operations across the company’s 2,700+ stores, serving over 11 million customers daily. As Senior Vice President of Operations, Adcock achieved six consecutive years of delivering over $1 billion in operational savings, enabling Kroger to reinvest in lowering prices, increasing wages, and enhancing customer and associate experiences.
Her leadership also advanced Kroger’s Zero Hunger | Zero Waste initiative, achieving 100% store participation in surplus food rescue programs. She developed the Full, Fresh & Friendly: Every Customer Every Time program to elevate customer satisfaction and team engagement.
Adcock began her career in Kroger’s manufacturing division and has held several leadership roles, including Vice President of Deli/Bakery Manufacturing, Vice President of Natural Foods, and Group Vice President of Retail Operations. She was recognized as a Top Women in Grocery Trailblazer in 2022.
About Kroger
The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR) is one of the largest retailers in the United States, with nearly 420,000 associates serving over 11 million customers daily. Committed to its purpose, To Feed the Human Spirit™, Kroger drives innovation and sustainability through its #ZeroHungerZeroWaste initiative, aiming to uplift communities and inspire lives across America.
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