Kroger's New CEO: A Walmart Executive's Journey to the Grocery Industry's Top Spot
The supermarket giant Kroger is set to name Greg Foran, a former Walmart executive, as its new CEO, according to a recent report by the Wall Street Journal. This move marks a significant shift in leadership for Kroger, as Foran will be the first outsider to take the helm of the retailer.
Foran, a 64-year-old New Zealander, brings a wealth of experience to the role. He spent five years at Walmart, overseeing U.S. store operations until 2019. During his tenure, Foran focused on improving existing stores, leading to 20 quarters of comparable sales growth. This success in turning around Walmart's U.S. operations has positioned him as a strong candidate for Kroger's leadership.
The transition to Foran's leadership comes as Kroger seeks to navigate a series of challenges. Since the resignation of Rodney McMullen in March 2025, following an internal ethics investigation, Kroger has been led by interim CEO Ron Sargent. Sargent, a Kroger board member and former Staples CEO, has been guiding the company through a period of uncertainty. The appointment of Foran is seen as a strategic move to bring fresh perspectives and expertise to Kroger's operations.
Foran's most recent role was as the CEO of Air New Zealand from 2020 to 2025. During his time at the airline, he faced a series of crises, including engine component shortages and the grounding of aircraft. Despite these challenges, Foran's leadership helped Air New Zealand weather the storm, showcasing his ability to manage complex situations.
As Kroger prepares to welcome its new CEO, the company remains tight-lipped about the upcoming announcement. Kroger officials have declined to comment on the February 8 report, which suggests that the decision could be made as early as February 9. The appointment of Greg Foran is expected to bring a new era of leadership to Kroger, with the potential to shape the future of the supermarket giant.
