Kroger Announces Retirement of EVP and COO Mike Donnelly
CINCINNATI, OH - How can we even begin to quantify the impact a leader can have on a company over the course of four decades? Kroger has announced the retirement of Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Mike Donnelly after over 42 years of dedicated service in the retail sector.
Donnelly was promoted to Executive Vice President in 2015, according to a company release, and then to his current role as Chief Operating Officer in 2017. As COO, Donnelly was responsible for overseeing operations, which included merchandising, marketing, supply chain, manufacturing, and Kroger Health.
Donnelly first began his career in 1978 as a Clerk at Fry’s Food stores in California, later advancing into several leadership positions including district management. He later became Vice President of Merchandising for Fry’s, and was promoted to President of the Fry’s division in 2000.
The release noted Donnelly then joined Kroger as Senior Vice President of Drug/GM Merchandising, before returning to lead the Fry’s division as President again in 2003. In 2007, Donnelly was named President of the Ralphs division and was later promoted to Senior Vice President of Merchandising in 2011.
“With his relentless focus on the customer, Mike has led the organization to prioritize what is most important to their experience—full shelves, fresh foods, and friendly associates,” said Chairman and CEO Rodney McMullen. “He energizes our teams to deliver results and the best experience for every customer, every time. Importantly, Mike has mentored and developed countless associates, inspiring them to grow and reach their greatest potential—many of whom are in key leadership roles across the organization. His passion for people and developing world-class teams will be one of his lasting legacies. We wish Mike and his family all the best in retirement.”
The retirement is effective later this spring, and Kroger will announce a succession plan at a later date, according to the release.
From all of us here at ANUK, congratulations to Mike Donnelly on his retirement!
