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The Kroger Co. has announced the appointment of Greg Foran as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately. Foran, a veteran retail executive best known for orchestrating the turnaround of Walmart U.S., succeeds Ron Sargent, who has served as interim CEO since March 2025.

The appointment ends an extensive search process and signals Kroger's intent to double down on operational execution and omnichannel acceleration. Foran will also join the Company's Board of Directors.

The Walmart Track Record

Foran brings over 40 years of global experience, but his tenure as President and CEO of Walmart U.S. is the most significant indicator of his strategic direction for Kroger. During those six years (ending in 2019), Foran is credited with a massive turnaround of the retailer's largest division, overseeing more than 4,600 stores and one million associates.

Key Achievements at Walmart:

• Delivered positive comparable sales growth for 20 consecutive quarters.

• Accelerated digital capabilities, specifically introducing online ordering and pickup infrastructure.

• Drove meaningful results in retail media, a high-margin growth engine that is currently a top priority for Kroger.

Recent Experience

Most recently, Foran served as Chief Executive Officer of Air New Zealand. His five-year tenure there was defined by leading the airline through the pandemic disruption, managing complex union negotiations, and investing in fleet upgrades. The Board highlighted his ability to lead "end-to-end digital transformation" to improve customer experience as a key asset.

Ron Sargent, who will continue as Chairman of the Board, commented: "Greg is a highly respected operator who knows how to run large-scale retail businesses... His leadership style, focus on the customer, commitment to associates, and disciplined approach to execution are the perfect fit for Kroger."

Financial Outlook and Transition

The company utilized the announcement to reaffirm its previously issued fiscal year 2025 guidance, aiming to reassure investors of stability during the transition.

"Kroger is one of the most dynamic companies in retail," said Foran. "The company is built on a strong foundation... I look forward to working with the Board and the entire team to build on this momentum."

Kroger will provide further updates on the leadership transition during its earnings call on March 5.