Delhaize Executive Maura Abeln Smith to Resign; Michael Laurenti Joins Delhaize America as CIO
BRUSSELS, BELGIUM - Maura Abeln Smith, Delhaize Group’s Executive Vice President, General Counsel and General Secretary, has announced her resignation from the company, effective November 1, 2014, according to a press release. Her successor has not yet been named.
“I am grateful for Maura’s service. She came to Delhaize Group at a time of transition in leadership,” said Frans Muller, President and CEO. “She was committed, worked diligently, and made significant contributions and we wish her well in her future endeavors.”
In May 2013, Maura was appointed as the successor to Michael Waller, who retired from the company. She was formerly the EVP, Government Affairs, General Counsel, and Secretary of PepsiCo.
Maura graduated from Vassar College with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics, earned with highest honors. She was also one of the first women awarded a Rhodes Scholarship to England's Oxford University, where she earned a Master of Philosophy in economics. She then earned her Juris Doctor with honors from the University of Miami School of Law.
Michael Laurenti, 20 year retail veteran, will be joining Delhaize America as Chief Information Officer and as a member of the Delhaize America Leadership Team on November 17, 2014, according to a press release. He succeeds Deb Dixson, who announced her retirement earlier this year.
“Mike brings a wealth of Information Technology leadership to Delhaize America,” said Kevin Holt, Delhaize America CEO. “I am confident that as our new CIO he will continue to deliver a world-class Information Technology infrastructure and innovation for our company. We look forward to Laurenti joining Delhaize America and tapping into his extensive experience to propel our U.S. operations forward, enhance service in our retail stores, and leverage technology to better serve our customers.”
“I look forward to joining Delhaize America and working collaboratively with Kevin and the entire Delhaize America team,” said Laurenti. “Through technology, I am confident we will continue to help each of Delhaize America’s banners drive sales growth.”
Laurenti will be responsible for all Information Technology and Information Security operations, which support the company’s millions of customers, 100,000 associates and 1,300 stores, according to a press release.
AndNowUKnow would also like to wish Maura the best of luck in her future endeavors, and congratulate Michael for joining Delhaize America.
