In December, several key executive changes were announced within the grocery industry. These changes included high-level shifts at Ahold Delhaize USA and the departure of a key retail media executive from Albertsons. Among these changes were the appointments of a new president at Food Lion and a new chief data and information officer at Schnuck Markets, with both retailers replacing executives who are retiring. Here is a roundup of notable executive shifts that occurred in the final month of 2024.

1. Food Lion’s president, Meg Ham, announced her retirement after more than 10 years at the helm. Ham, who has worked for the grocer for over 35 years, led Food Lion to 48 straight quarters of positive sales growth. She will retire in May, leaving behind a legacy of strong leadership within the East Coast grocery chain.

2. Ahold Delhaize USA revealed that Greg Finchum, one of Ham’s top deputies, will take over as president of Food Lion upon her retirement in May. Finchum, who has been with Food Lion since 1989 and currently serves as the executive vice president of retail operations, will step into the top job at the supermarket chain. This appointment follows Ahold Delhaize’s announcement in September of Roger Wheeler as president of Stop & Shop.

3. Kristi Argyilan, who led Albertsons Media Collective since its launch in 2021, left the company to become the global head of advertising for Uber. Under Argyilan’s direction, Albertsons’ retail media unit became a pioneer in the grocery industry, establishing industry standards, growing connected TV capabilities, and championing innovations like AI for advertising.

4. Stop & Shop named Lee Nicholson as the new executive vice president and chief merchant of the supermarket chain. Nicholson, who previously served as senior vice president of procurement at Ahold Delhaize USA, will join the banner’s executive team in early 2025. This appointment comes as Stop & Shop looks to strengthen its operations and improve ties with shoppers following the closure of 32 stores in the second half of 2024.

5. Grocery Outlet appointed Christopher Miller as its new CFO, following the departure of former CFO Charles Bracher. Miller, who previously served as CFO at Shamrock Foods Company, will bring his financial expertise to Grocery Outlet as the company continues to navigate changes in leadership and strategy.

6. Schnuck Markets elevated Tom Henry to the position of chief data and information officer, replacing former Chief Information and Supply Chain Officer Bob Hardester, who retired in December. Henry, who previously served as Schnucks’ chief data and deputy chief information officer, will lead the development of advanced data and analytics within the Midwestern supermarket chain.

These executive changes highlight the dynamic nature of the grocery industry and the importance of strong leadership in navigating evolving consumer trends and industry challenges. As these new executives take on their roles, they will play a critical part in shaping the future of their respective companies and driving continued growth and innovation within the grocery sector.