The Kroger Co. has appointed Valerie Jabbar senior vice president of retail divisions, effective August 7. Jabbar is taking over the position from Steve McKenney who is retiring after more than 40 years of service.
McKinney began his career with Kroger in 1981 as a clerk for Florida Choice Supermarkets, a former Kroger banner. During his tenure, he held positions including vice president of operations for the Southwest division, vice president of operations for the Ralphs division, and president of the Fry’s division.
"Steve is an accomplished leader who has inspired generations of associates to achieve excellence while mentoring many into leadership positions. As a leader who worked in numerous positions and took on new responsibilities, he also committed to the mentoring and development of any associate interested and willing to grow with the company," said Rodney McMullen, Kroger's chairman and CEO, in a statement. "We thank Steve for his dedication throughout the years and wish him all the best in retirement."
Jabbar joined the company at Fry's as a store clerk in 1987. She held several leadership roles at Fry's before moving to the Mid-Atlantic division in 2012 to serve as vice president of merchandising. Other positions she has held at the company include vice president of merchandising for the Ralphs division, group vice president of merchandising, and her current role as group vice president of center store merchandising.
In this new role, Jabbar will oversee several retail divisions across the company.
"Valerie is a dedicated leader who provides strong results through her passion for people – both associates and customers. Her proven success of building highly motivated teams and executing with excellence will foster an energy and commitment to continue delivering a full, fresh and friendly experience for every customer in the divisions she will lead," said Mary Ellen Adcock, Kroger's senior vice president of operations, in a statement. "Valerie's 34 years of experience with the company brings a deep understanding of the business and will provide yet another valuable perspective among our senior leadership team."
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Image: The Kroger Co.