The Kroger Co. has announced a series of strategic leadership appointments, reinforcing its commitment to operational excellence and future growth across its retail divisions.
Joe Kelley, formerly president of the King Soopers & City Markets division, has been promoted to Senior Vice President of Retail Divisions. With nearly four decades of experience across major supermarket brands, including Price Chopper, Stop and Shop, and Shaw’s, Kelley has been a key figure at Kroger since joining in 2019. CEO Ron Sargent praised him as a “customer-centric leader with a strong track record of making stores great places to shop.”
Succeeding Kelley in Colorado is Chris Albi, previously Group Vice President of Operations for the division. A seasoned Kroger veteran who began her career in 1981 as a courtesy clerk, Albi has held influential roles ranging from merchandising leadership in Michigan to serving as president of QFC. Her deep understanding of the brand and its associates positions her well for continued success.
Kenny Kimball, who previously held the SVP role now filled by Kelley, returns to lead the Smith’s division in Utah as President. A respected leader within the organisation, Kimball began his career with Kroger in 1984 and is credited for his commitment to associates and strategic mentorship over his decades-long tenure.
In another key move, Kendra Doyel has been named President of the Food 4 Less division, overseeing operations across California and Illinois. Having joined Kroger in 1998 as a pharmacist, Doyel’s career has spanned leadership roles at Fry’s, Ralphs, and Food 4 Less, demonstrating a consistent focus on innovation and people development.
Doyel steps into the role as Bryan Kaltenbach announces his retirement after a distinguished 50-year career in the grocery sector. Since joining Food 4 Less in 1994, Kaltenbach held a variety of operational and marketing leadership positions before becoming president in 2010.
These appointments reflect Kroger’s emphasis on promoting talent from within and sustaining leadership that is both seasoned and forward-looking. As the retailer continues to navigate a dynamic grocery landscape, these moves reinforce its aim to serve communities with renewed energy and strategic clarity.
