A bold move is on the horizon for Kroger, the renowned supermarket giant based in Cincinnati. The company is set to appoint Greg Foran, a seasoned executive with a Walmart background, as its new CEO. This decision, reported by the Wall Street Journal, marks a significant shift for Kroger, as Foran will be the first outsider to lead the retailer.
Foran, 64, brings a wealth of experience to the role. He previously oversaw Walmart's U.S. store operations for five years, a challenging task that he successfully navigated. His leadership at Walmart is credited with a remarkable turnaround, focusing on enhancing existing stores and achieving 20 consecutive quarters of comparable sales growth.
But here's where it gets controversial... Foran's appointment comes at a time when Kroger is in a state of transition. The company has been led by interim CEO Ron Sargent, a former Staples CEO and Kroger board member, since the abrupt departure of Rodney McMullen in March 2025. McMullen's resignation followed an internal ethics investigation, leaving a void at the top that Sargent has been filling.
And this is the part most people miss... Foran's journey since leaving Walmart has been an interesting one. Born in New Zealand, he served as the CEO of Air New Zealand from 2020 to 2025, joining the airline just as the COVID-19 pandemic emerged. During his tenure, Foran faced numerous crises, including persistent shortages of engine components and the grounding of multiple aircraft. Despite these challenges, he successfully steered the airline through turbulent times.
Kroger officials have declined to comment on the Wall Street Journal's report, which cited sources familiar with the matter. The paper suggests that an official announcement could be made as early as February 9th.
So, what do you think about this appointment? Is Foran the right choice to lead Kroger into a new era? Share your thoughts in the comments below! We'd love to hear your opinions on this exciting development.
