Albertsons Companies has announced the retirement of Karl Schroeder, president of its Northern California Division, after 49 years of service.
Noting that Schroeder had previously shared his intention to retire, the company said in a statement that it had implemented a succession plan, with Kelly Mullin becoming president of the division.
Mullin, who previously served as president of Albertsons’ Portland Division, is decribed on the company’s website as a “seasoned leader with three decades of experience in the grocery industry … whose collaborative spirit fosters cross-functional teamwork, ensuring that all departments work cohesively to earn customers for life.
“Her strategic mindset, operational expertise and relentless focus on our customers will continue to drive success in the region,” the company said in a statement.
In her new role, Mullin will lead a fleet of 287 stores in California, Hawaii and Nevada operating under the Safeway, Andronico’s and Vons banners.
Mullin began her career in 1994 at a Vons store in Santa Clarita, California. Early on, she held various positions in retail execution and marketing leadership.
She later served as SVP of marketing and merchandising for the NorCal Division, which followed her tenure as VP of marketing and merchandising for the Portland Division. Mullin’s strategic initiatives led to notable sales growth in both divisions, the company said.
Albertsons also wished Schroeder the best in retirement. “From courtesy clerk to leading divisions coast to coast – including president of the Eastern and Seattle divisions – Schroeder’s impact has been broad-reaching, earning top industry honors.”
Schroeder was inducted into The Shelby Report’s Food Industry Hall of Fame in 2014.
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