BOISE, Idaho — Albertsons Cos. has announced a broad realignment of its merchandising leadership, a move executives say will strengthen the grocer’s ability to “buy better to sell better.”
At the center of the changes is the promotion of Michelle Larson to Executive Vice President and Chief Merchandising Officer. Previously EVP of Operations West, Larson now leads Own Brands, Category Excellence, Pricing & Promotion, Space Planning, and Fuel and Commission Income.
“It’s a new day at Albertsons Cos., and we are sharpening our customer value proposition to drive long-term growth faster than the market,” Larson said. “I look forward to working with this talented team of leaders to support our associates and serve our customers, inspiring them to return again and again.”
Additionally, Jack Pestello has been named president of Own Brands, managing the company’s private-label portfolio, which produces over $16 billion each year.
Mark Laryea, formerly president of the Jewel-Osco Division, will take on the role of president of Merchandising, reporting to Larson. He will direct overall merchandising strategy.
Other key leadership roles include:
- Jewel Hunt, GVP, Corporate Merchandising, continues to lead bakery, deli, and Starbucks strategies.
- Anthony Suggs, GVP, Corporate Merchandising, continues to lead center store merchandising strategy.
- Teresa Whitney, GVP, Corporate Merchandising, continues to lead meat, seafood, produce, and floral.
- Chris Cowgill transitions to GVP, Business Intelligence and Analytics, focusing on analytics, reporting, and optimization.
- Christopher Lanoue becomes GVP, Merchandising Operations, overseeing systems, item governance, pricing, promotion, and space planning.
- June Zheng, VP, Merchandising Strategy and Business Development, will now report directly to Larson, guiding strategy support and business ventures.
