Last updated on July 14th, 2022
Encino, California-based Gelson’s has promoted John Bagan to president, with Rob McDougall remaining as CEO.
The new leadership position marks Bagan’s second promotion in 14 months, evolving from CMO to COO in May 2021. As president, he will assume greater management of Gelson’s while serving on its executive team with McDougall, CFO Clare Bogle and CIO Ron Johnson.
Bagan joined Gelson’s as CMO in 2016, moving from previous executive merchandising roles at Guitar Center, Albertson’s and Target. He began his career as a business analyst for Morgan Stanley and has an MBA from Northwestern University.
“John has been an integral part of the Gelson’s team for nearly six years, and we have benefited greatly from his business expertise and insight. I am confident that, as president, he will become an even stronger catalyst for our strategic initiatives and growth,” McDougall said.
Joining Gelson’s in 2007 and rising to CEO and president, McDougall will remain focused on driving company profitability and the customer experience while managing the relationship between its board and its parent company, Pan Pacific International Holdings.
“It has been a great honor to work with the best team in our business over these last six years, and I am excited to take on this new leadership opportunity,” Bagan said.
“Gelson’s is uniquely positioned to be at the center of our customers’ food experience whether they are looking for the best quality ingredients for the perfect family meal, delicious fully-prepared offerings ready to go, or a welcoming neighborhood spot to enjoy a glass of wine and tapas or sushi with a friend. Our passion is sharing the Gelson’s experience.”
Gelson’s operates 27 full-service specialty food stores in Southern California. Each market features the amenities of a traditional supermarket, with the local flavor of a neighborhood market. Gelson’s Markets feature hand-selected produce, fresh cuts of meat and chef-prepared recipes, as well as floral arrangements, an assortment of wines and beverages and a selection of specialty grocery items.
For more information, visit gelsons.com.
