Last updated on March 25th, 2021
Baton Rouge, Louisiana-based Associated Grocers Inc. named Manard Lagasse Jr. its new president and CEO May 30.
In July, Lagasse announced leadership changes designed to “enhance Associated Grocers’ position for growth in the coming years.”
“We have been a leader in the wholesale grocery industry for many years, and I am confident with these changes, our position to serve our customers will be even greater going forward,” Lagasse said.
David Politz, VP of information services, was promoted to SVP and CIO. Politz is a long-term member of AG’s leadership team and has been with the company for 34 years. His knowledge and enthusiasm for this business will enhance the ability to compete in this ever-changing technological business, the company says.
Pete Tortorich, formerly senior director of perishables, was promoted to VP of retail operations/business development. Tortorich has held many leadership positions over his 24-year career with AG. In his new role, Tortorich will lead the perishable department as well as develop new business for the company.
Carl D. Marks has been promoted from GM-operations to VP-operations. Marks has served as operations GM for several years and has been with Associated Grocers for 21 years collectively. He now is helping guide the entire operations team. He will help develop and guide AG’s strategies, working closely with the entire leadership team and will help the team focus on an efficient and effective direction that will ensure growth, according to Lagasse.
William Holtman has been promoted from GM-logistics and supply chain management to VP of logistics and supply chain management. He has been with AG for 21 years and now assumes the logistics and supply chain leadership role over the warehousing and transportation areas.
“I’m as excited now, as I’ve always been, about Associated Grocers,” said Jim Crifasi of Hi Nabor Supermarket, AG retail member and chairman of the AG board. “There’s such a positive approach moving forward. AG has always been a rock solid company, with good people who are experienced in this industry.”
Barry Loy of The Markets, an AG retail member and immediate past board chair of AG, echoed that sentiment.
“My team is looking forward to all of the innovative ideas being introduced by AG’s executive leadership. The energy they are exuding provides a great landscape for the company,” Loy said.
Other members of the AG executive team include Doug Drummond, SVP and CFO, and Roger Story, SVP of sales and marketing.
“I am very excited to announce these leadership changes as we strive to enhance our ability to serve,” Lagasse said. “Each of these leaders brings unmatched talent, enthusiasm and energy to Associated Grocers. I am committed to strengthening our overall portfolio, and with these leaders and our entire team of dedicated AG family members, I am confident in our bright future.”
