Ahold Delhaize Announces Departure of FreshDirect’s Co-Founder and CEO, David McInerney; Farhan Siddiqi Named Interim CEO
NEW YORK, NY & ZAANDAM, NETHERLANDS - While reporting on new hires is always an exhilarating task, the end of a journey with a company can oftentimes be just as special, as it shows accomplishment and time well spent. This is the case as Ahold Delhaize’s FreshDirect division Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer David McInerney announced he has stepped down from his role effective May 5. McInerney will serve in an advisory role through the end of October 2021.
“FreshDirect has been an amazing, life-changing, 20-year adventure for me,” said McInerney. “I have been so fortunate to have worked alongside an incredible team of talented, dedicated people who all share the same passion for our mission—to make great, fresh food easy to get. Our amazing farmers, ranchers, and fishermen have inspired me every day as partners, teachers, and true friends. With the commitment and support of Frans, Farhan, and the entire Ahold Delhaize team, FreshDirect is in excellent hands and well-positioned for continued success."
Ahold Delhaize and Centerbridge Partners first announced the agreement to acquire FreshDirect in November 2020, according to a press release. The sale of the company officially closed on January 5 of this year, making the online grocer a division of Ahold.
As McInerney steps down from his long-held role, a search for a new CEO to lead FreshDirect in its next phase of growth will be initiated. While Ahold searches for a new FreshDirect leader, Farhan Siddiqi, Chief Digital Officer of Ahold Delhaize, will serve as interim CEO.
"On behalf of Ahold Delhaize, I want to thank David for his dedication and leadership over the past two decades. As Co-Founder, David has been instrumental in establishing FreshDirect’s philosophy in bringing the best fresh and high-quality products to people’s doorsteps in the Tri-state area,” said Siddiqi. “We will ensure a smooth transition and honor FreshDirect's unique customer-focused and food-centric culture and deep connection with its suppliers. FreshDirect's customers will continue to enjoy the high-quality fresh food, great tasting products, and stellar service for which FreshDirect is known.”
Cheers to David McInerney as he sets off down a new path!
