Cincinnati, Ohio, February 10, 2026
Kroger Co. has appointed Greg Foran as its new CEO, following the resignation of former CEO Rodney McMullen due to an ethics investigation. Foran, with over 40 years of retail experience, aims to bring innovation and growth to Kroger. His background includes leading major consumer businesses and implementing digital transformations, making him well-suited to enhance customer experiences. This leadership transition occurs at a crucial time as Kroger navigates a competitive grocery landscape.
Kroger Appoints New CEO Greg Foran Following Ethics Scandal
Leadership transition brings fresh vision from a seasoned executive
Cincinnati, Ohio – In a significant leadership shift, Kroger Co. has appointed Greg Foran, former executive at Walmart, as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately. This new era for the grocery giant arrives after the resignation of previous CEO Rodney McMullen, who stepped down earlier this year due to an ethics investigation. Foran’s extensive background in managing large consumer businesses across multiple countries positions him well to steer Kroger toward continued growth and innovation in the competitive grocery landscape.
Foran, hailing from New Zealand, brings over 40 years of experience in the retail sector, with key roles including his time as the CEO of Air New Zealand, where he implemented major digital transformations. This focus on enhancing customer experiences and operational efficiencies is particularly relevant in today’s marketplace, where consumer preferences are rapidly evolving. As local entrepreneurs strive to thrive under improved business environments, Foran’s leadership may well resonate with the entrepreneurial spirit found within Bexar County and throughout Texas.
Background of the New CEO
Greg Foran’s credentials as a leader are impressive. Prior to his tenure at Air New Zealand, he served as the President and CEO of Walmart U.S. from 2014 to 2019, where he oversaw significant advancements, including the introduction of online ordering and pickup services and an acceleration of Walmart’s digital capabilities. His experience reflects a proactive approach to meeting customer needs, which aligns with Kroger’s mission to enhance customer satisfaction and convenience.
Transitioning Leadership at Kroger
Taking the reins from Ron Sargent, who has been serving as Kroger’s interim CEO since McMullen’s departure, Foran’s leadership aims to streamline operations and drive innovation throughout the company’s extensive network. Sargent will remain actively involved by continuing his role as Chairman of the Board, ensuring a smooth handover and sustained strategic direction for Kroger during this transition.
Kroger’s Operational Footprint
Kroger’s operations span 2,731 stores across various brands, such as Ralphs, King Soopers, Smith’s, and Fred Meyer, employing approximately 409,000 individuals. This robust presence emphasizes the importance of effective leadership in maintaining operational excellence and fostering growth in a challenging market. The leadership team at Kroger is tasked with adapting and responding to shifts in consumer habits, particularly as digital solutions become increasingly vital.
Future Outlook
With Greg Foran’s appointment, Kroger positions itself to embrace new strategies for future success. The integration of enhanced digital tools and customer service initiatives could lead to revamping the overall shopping experience. As the grocery sector adapts to challenges posed by competition and changing consumer preferences, Foran’s leadership experience will likely play a crucial role in reinforcing Kroger’s competitive stance.
Conclusion
The appointment of Greg Foran as Kroger’s new CEO heralds a time of potential transformation for the company as it aims to fulfill the evolving needs of its customers. As businesses throughout San Antonio and Texas navigate similar waters, it remains crucial to support local enterprises that embody the resilience and innovative spirit exhibited by leaders like Foran. Communities should stay engaged with local businesses to foster a robust economic environment, driving further growth and stability in the region.
FAQ
Who is the new CEO of Kroger?
Greg Foran, a former Walmart executive and CEO of Air New Zealand, has been appointed as Kroger’s new CEO, effective immediately.
Why did Kroger’s previous CEO resign?
Rodney McMullen resigned in March 2025 following an ethics investigation into his personal conduct, which was unrelated to the business but violated Kroger’s ethics policy.
What is Greg Foran’s background?
Greg Foran has over four decades of experience in leading large consumer businesses across five countries. He served as CEO of Air New Zealand, leading a digital transformation to improve customer experience and operational agility. Prior to that, he was President and CEO of Walmart U.S. from 2014 to 2019, where he introduced online ordering and pickup services and accelerated the company’s digital capabilities.
What is Kroger’s current leadership structure?
Ron Sargent has been serving as Kroger’s interim CEO since March 2025 and will continue to serve as Chairman of the Board to ensure a smooth leadership transition.
Where is Kroger headquartered?
Kroger is headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| New CEO | Greg Foran, former Walmart executive and CEO of Air New Zealand |
| Previous CEO | Rodney McMullen, resigned in March 2025 due to an ethics investigation |
| Interim CEO | Ron Sargent, continues as Chairman of the Board |
| Kroger’s Operations | 2,731 stores, 409,000 employees, various brands including Ralphs, King Soopers, Smith’s, and Fred Meyer |
| Headquarters | Cincinnati, Ohio |
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