The Kroger Co. has announced that Senior Vice President Robert "Pete" Williams plans to retire in May after 37 years with the company.
Upon graduating from the University of Mississippi, Mr. Williams began his Kroger career in 1977 as a management trainee in Memphis, Tenn with the company's Delta division. Beginning in 1978 he held a variety of human resources leadership roles, working his way up to serve as director of labour relations at the company's general office in 1987. He moved back to Atlanta three years later, where he spent the next several years serving as vice president of operations and vice president of merchandising, before being promoted to president of Kroger's Mid-Atlantic division in 1998.
Mr. Williams has served in his current role since 2007. Today, he leads seven supermarket divisions. His replacement will be named at a later date.
"Throughout his extraordinary career, Pete's leadership has reflected his passion for our associates, customers and local communities. He has been a tremendous asset to our company and will be missed," said Mike Ellis, Kroger's president and chief operating officer. "Whether developing associates and fostering career paths for many people within the company, or influencing Kroger to improve the customer experience, Pete led with a contagious enthusiasm and steady presence. We thank Pete for his many years of dedicated service and wish him and his wife, Jennifer, the very best in retirement."
