Following the news that EVP and COO Roger White will be leaving the company in June to become the next CEO of URM Stores Inc., Salt Lake City-based Associated Food Stores (AFS) has announced the promotions of three executives.
The appointments, which will take effect following White’s departure, include:
- Glen Keysaw will become EVP of value chain, where he will lead efforts across merchandising, marketing, wholesale operations and member retail support.
- Justin Johnson will assume the role of VP of distribution, overseeing the company’s distribution center and logistics efforts.
- Darin Peirce will be elevated to EVP while maintaining his responsibilities as president of Associated Retail Operations, the company’s corporate-owned stores.
At URM, White will succeed Ray Sprinkle, who is retiring this summer.
White has spent the last several decades shaping the success of AFS through his commitment to operational excellence, member support and a passion for serving independent retailers. His leadership has helped guide the organization through significant growth, innovation and industry change.
“Roger has been a cornerstone of our leadership team and culture,” said David Rice, president and CEO of Associated Food Stores.
“His ability to bring people together, drive strategy and stay grounded in our mission has made a lasting impact on AFS and the retailers we serve. While we will miss him tremendously, we’re excited to see him take this next step and continue influencing the independent grocery industry at URM.”
“These moves reflect the incredible talent at AFS and our continued focus on strengthening the support and services for our member retailers today and in the future. Glen, Justin and Darin have demonstrated outstanding leadership and an incredible commitment to our purpose.”
According to AFS, the transition also is meaningful due to the company’s longstanding connection to URM. Eighty-five years ago, URM helped Don Lloyd establish what would become Associated Food Stores.
[RELATED: URM Stores Names White As President, CEO]
About Associated Food Stores
Since 1940, Associated Food Stores has empowered independent grocers with warehousing, distribution, logistics and retail solutions.
What began as a partnership between 34 grocers to strengthen buying power and compete with national chains has grown into a network of about 500 stores across the Intermountain West.