Kroger names Greg Foran as CEO, Sargent remains chairman

Core Viewpoint - Kroger has appointed Greg Foran as its new CEO, marking the end of a search for a permanent leader and indicating a strategic shift in leadership for the company [1][4]. Leadership Appointment - Greg Foran has been appointed as CEO of Kroger with immediate effect and will also join the board of directors [1]. - Ron Sargent, who has been serving as interim CEO since March 2025, will remain as chairman of the board to support the transition [1]. Foran's Background and Experience - Foran brings over 40 years of senior management experience across five countries, including significant roles in digital upgrades and operational restructuring [2]. - He previously served as president and CEO of Walmart US, where he oversaw the largest division of the group until 2019, achieving positive comparable sales for 20 consecutive quarters and managing over 4,600 stores and around one million employees [3]. - Most recently, Foran was the CEO of Air New Zealand, where he implemented a digital program and managed challenges related to the pandemic [3]. Leadership Style and Vision - Sargent praised Foran as a highly respected operator with a strong focus on customer service, commitment to associates, and a disciplined approach to execution, which aligns well with Kroger's needs [4]. - Foran expressed enthusiasm about his new role, emphasizing the importance of building on momentum and delivering long-term value for customers, associates, and shareholders [2]. Management Changes - The appointment of Foran follows a series of senior management changes at Kroger, including promotions within its retail divisions [5]. - Victor Smith has been promoted to senior vice-president of retail divisions, while Monica Garnes and Ken DeLuca have taken leadership roles in the Atlanta and Fry's divisions, respectively [5].