Kroger announces Smith's, King Sooper's, Food 4 Less leadership changes

Kroger is making leadership changes after the recent resignation of its longtime CEO.

The Kroger Co. is shaking up its banner leadership.

The grocery giant has appointed Joe Kelley, president of the Colorado-based King Soopers & City Markets division, to be senior VP of retail divisions. Kelley is an industry veteran of nearly 40 years, and has held a number of executive leadership roles across a variety of retailers, including Price Chopper, Stop and Shop, Star Market, and Shaws Supermarkets. Kelley joined Kroger in 2019.

“Joe is a customer-centric leader who brings broad industry experience, with a strong track record of making stores great places to shop,” said Kroger CEO and chairman Ron Sargent, who was appointed to the position in March following the resignation of longtime chief executive Rodney McMullen.

Kelley succeeds Kenny Kimball, who returns to the Utah-based Smith’s division as president after three years also leading as senior VP of retail divisions. Kimball joined Kroger in 1984.

“We are grateful for Kenny’s leadership as he stepped up to oversee multiple retail divisions in addition to Smith’s,” said Sargent. “His commitment to our associates and customers is inspirational, and he will continue to play a key role in our enterprise, supporting strategic priorities and mentoring young leaders.”