Kroger has selected its Ralphs division president Valerie Jabbar as the new group vice president of merchandising for the company.
“Valerie brings a wealth of knowledge, experience and insight to this role,” Mike Donnelly, executive vice president and chief operating officer for Kroger, said in the news release. “As we continue the work of Restock Kroger, her ability to lead and deliver for our associates and customers will continue to transform our business.”
Jabbar held her first job with the company in 1987 as a clerk and has since held positions including assistant store director, category manager and district manager.
Succeeding Jabbar as the president of the Ralphs division will be Mike Murphy, vice president of operations for the Columbus division.
“Mike is a dynamic leader who brings great passion to our business,” Donnelly said in the release. “His strong commitment to our purpose and promise, and extensive grocery retail experience, make him a great asset to our Ralphs division.”
Murphy started with Kroger as an accountant in 1999 and has since held roles including category manager, assistant merchandiser and district manager.
Ralphs has its headquarters in Compton, Calif., and operates 191 stores.
The personnel moves take effect Sept. 1.