Albertsons Elevates Meg Whitman to New Executive Chair Role

Albertsons Companies, the Boise-based grocery operator, announced a sweeping regional operating model in July after first-quarter comparable-store sales declined. The plan consolidates its former 11 divisions into four regions and centralizes center-store merchandising. At the same time, President and CFO Sharon McCollam will retire later this year and shift to an advisory role through the fiscal year ending in February.

GroceryDiveAlbertsons Names Whitman To New Executive Chair Role

The board was enlarged from ten to eleven members, with Kim Fennebresque moving from chair to lead independent director. Meg Whitman—former eBay president and CEO, former Hewlett-Packard Enterprise chief, and ex-U.S. ambassador to Kenya—joined as executive chair and will also act as an operations and strategic advisor to CEO Susan Morris. The board’s technology expertise was further bolstered earlier in the year by adding Brian Rice, chief technology officer of McDonald’s, as a director.

Albertsons Names Whitman To New Executive Chair Role GroceryDive

• “At this pivotal moment, I’m thrilled Meg is joining our board as Executive Chair,” — Susan Morris, advisor to CEO

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• “Meg has a remarkable track record of helping companies strengthen execution, accelerate growth and create long-term value,” — Susan Morris, advisor to CEO

Albertsons Names Whitman To New Executive Chair Role

• “As we focus on moving faster and competing more effectively, Meg’s strategic judgment, operating discipline and technology expertise will be invaluable.” — Kim Fennebresque

Albertsons Names Whitman To New Executive Chair Role

• “Albertsons has a rich history serving customers and communities across the country,” — Meg Whitman, lead independent director

Albertsons Names Whitman To New Executive Chair Role

Albertsons operates 2,240 retail stores across 35 states and the District of Columbia under 22 banners, including Albertsons, Safeway, Vons, Jewel-Osco, Shaw’s, Acme, Tom Thumb and Randalls. The executive chair appointment is positioned as a key element of the company’s effort to sharpen strategy, accelerate growth and deliver value for customers, associates, communities and shareholders.

Albertsons Names Whitman To New Executive Chair Role GroceryDive