The Kroger Co. has elected Elaine Chao to the company’s board of directors until the annual shareholders meeting in 2022. At that time, she will stand for election by the shareholders.
“We are pleased to welcome Elaine to Kroger,” said Rodney McMullen, Kroger’s chairman and CEO. “She’s an experienced national and global leader who brings to Kroger’s board deep knowledge of corporate governance, strategic and workforce management, and public-private partnerships as well as extensive experience at the highest levels of U.S. government.”
Chao’s career has involved leading domestic and international organizations across the public, private and non-profit sectors, including serving as U.S. Secretary of Labor, U.S. Secretary of Transportation, director on numerous Fortune 500 public company boards, president and CEO of the United Way of America, director of the Peace Corps and a banker with Citicorp and Bank of America.
She is both the first Asian-Pacific American woman to serve in the President’s cabinet in U.S. history and the longest-serving U.S. cabinet secretary since World War II.
She obtained her MBA from Harvard Business School after receiving her undergraduate degree in economics from Mount Holyoke College. Recognized for her record of accomplishments and public service, she is also the recipient of 37 honorary doctorate degrees.
“Kroger’s proactive board refreshment strategy ensures the organization benefits from the unique expertise and perspective of a diverse board of directors,” McMullen said. “Kroger’s board is committed to creating value for all of our stakeholders, including our shareholders, customers, associates and communities.”
