CINCINNATI -- Retailer the Kroger Co., which includes 788 convenience stores, named Marnette Perry to the position of senior vice president, strategic initiatives and operations, and Michael Ellis to senior vice president, retail divisions. The appointments support Kroger's long-term growth plans, according to the company.
"Kroger's highly experienced leadership team has the skill and deep understanding of our customers to grow our business, engage our associates and deliver shareholder value," said Rodney McMullen, Kroger's president and chief operating officer.
Perry will lead Kroger's retail operations and several strategic initiatives, including efforts to reach value-conscious customers. In her previous role, she was responsible for eight supermarket divisions. Perry recently led the team responsible for Kroger's "faster checkout" rollout, which has reduced customer wait times at checkout from an average of 4 minutes to 30 seconds, according to the company. She joined Kroger in 1972 as a part-time cashier and has held many leadership positions during her Kroger career, including president of the Michigan and Columbus divisions.
"Marnette's experience in turning ideas into action in our floral and natural foods departments, and our faster checkout initiatives, will enhance the spirit of innovation at Kroger," McMullen said.
Ellis has been president of Kroger's Fred Meyer division, based in Portland, Ore., since 2006. Since joining Fred Meyer at age 16, Ellis has held a number of leadership positions in the company, including vice president of Fred Meyer's food group and group vice president for grocery, drug, general merchandise, pharmacy & advertising for The Kroger Co.
"Mike's strong commitment to our customers and associates, paired with his dynamic leadership skills, make him a great fit for this role," McMullen said.
In his new position Ellis will oversee five supermarket divisions, plus Kroger's jewelry and convenience store group.
Kroger, one of the world's largest retailers, employs more than 339,000 associates who serve customers in 2,425 supermarkets and multi-department stores in 31 states under two dozen local banner names. The company also operates 788 convenience stores, 342 fine jewelry stores, 1,124 supermarket fuel centers and 37 food processing plants in the U.S.
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