Harps Food Stores Inc. has announced strategic leadership changes with the appointments of Jim Bob Tackett as the new VP of store systems and John Taylor as the new member of the executive committee.
These appointments were made following the retirement of Mike Thurow, who served as the SVP of store systems and CIO for 41 years.
Tackett’s journey with Harps began in 1990, when he started working as a part-time stocker in Fayetteville while still in high school. He developed a strong foundation in the retail industry by working in various positions throughout high school and college. In 1997, he graduated from the University of Arkansas with a bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering.
The following year, Tackett embarked on his professional career as a systems analyst for Harps Food Stores, which operated 26 stores at that time. His expertise and leadership did not go unnoticed, and he was promoted to director of store technology in 2014. In this role, Tackett has overseen the implementation of cutting-edge technologies and systems, enhancing operational efficiencies across the chain.
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Taylor, a Northwest Arkansas native, has a long history with Harps Food Stores, starting as a high school sacker in 1992. After graduation from Springdale High School in 1994, he attended the University of Arkansas, earning a bachelor’s degree in computer systems engineering in December 1998.
During his time at Harps, he climbed the ranks from programmer/analyst to director of information systems and to VP of information systems earlier this year, showcasing his dedication and passion for technology. Following the retirement of Thurow, Taylor was added to the executive committee.
“[Mike] has been invaluable in his role. I am saddened by his retirement, but Mike has accomplished much and should be remembered for his tremendous contribution to our company,” said Kim Eskew, chairman and CEO for Harps.
“At a time when changing jobs every two or three years has become the norm, we are delighted to promote Jim Bob and John, who have distinguished themselves at our company since they began working for us in high school. Their knowledge and experience within our company has prepared them for this step, and we are thrilled to see what they will accomplish in the years ahead.”
Harps is a 100 percent employee-owned company, which operates 147 stores in six states: Arkansas, Kansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri and Oklahoma. Harps is the largest employee-owned company in Arkansas. Harps was founded by Harvard and Floy Harp in Springdale, Arkansas in 1930. Since then, the company has grown to employ more than 7,200 people.
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