Albertsons has announced that Susan Morris, its EVP and chief operations officer, will succeed Vivek Sankaran as CEO following his planned retirement on 1 May 2025.
Morris will also join the company’s board of directors, replacing Sankaran, who has served as CEO since April 2019 and previously led PepsiCo Foods North America.
With 40 years of experience in the grocery retail industry, Morris has been Albertsons’ EVP and chief operations officer since January 2018.
In this role, she has overseen retail operations across more than 2,200 stores in 34 states.
Morris said: “At a time of profound change for the grocery industry, I am honored to be appointed as the next CEO of Albertsons.
“I have worked closely with Vivek and the leadership team on our plans to accelerate growth and am confident that we are on the right path with our Customers for Life strategy.”
At Albertsons, she previously served as EVP of regional operations, division president in two markets, and in various positions within merchandising and operations.
Jim Donald, chair of the Albertsons board of directors, added: “Over the past several years, the board has engaged in a thoughtful and comprehensive succession planning process to identify Albertsons Cos.’ next CEO, including evaluating internal and external candidates.
“The board is confident that Susan is the ideal person to lead the company into its next chapter of growth.
“With a nearly 40-year career at the company that began at an Albertsons store in the Denver market, Susan brings unmatched expertise and deep knowledge of the business.”
Moving forward, Morris and Sankaran will work together to continue the implementation of the Customers for Life strategy, which aims to strengthen the business.
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