After 10 years with The Raley’s Companies, senior executive Chelsea Carbahal has transitioned into an advisory role, marking the close of a decade in which she played a central role in shaping the company’s communications, public affairs and community impact strategy.
Carbahal joined Raley’s in 2015 and rose to become senior leader of public relations, government affairs and community impact. During her tenure, she guided strategic communications through a period of significant transformation, including acquisitions and divestitures that doubled the company’s size and advanced its vision of “changing the way the world eats, one plate at a time.”
“Chelsea was instrumental in communicating our transformation, including introducing a healthier assortment and exiting products and categories no longer aligned with our brand and vision,” said Keith Knopf, president and CEO, The Raley’s Companies.
“We relied on her expertise during the challenges of the pandemic and trusted her ability to anticipate and shape our response to regulatory changes and evolving consumer sentiment. Chelsea’s leadership was central to these pivotal moments and so much more.”
In 2020, Carbahal’s responsibilities expanded across The Raley’s Companies’ multi-state footprint. She led government affairs efforts across complex regulatory environments, building relationships with local and state officials as well as Tribal Nations. She also served as executive director of the company’s charitable foundation, Food For Families, working alongside Foundation President Julie Teel to broaden fundraising efforts and increase the program’s impact across Northern California and Nevada.
“Chelsea has been a vital contributor to the strategic and operational success and expansion of Raley’s Food For Families,” said Julie Teel, president of Food For Families Board of Directors. “I am forever grateful for her compassionate, empathetic and courageous leadership in our shared mission to help those who are food insecure.”
Carbahal also worked closely with Mike Teel, owner and chairman of The Raley’s Companies, supporting regional economic development efforts and legislative initiatives, including the passage of Proposition 36 related to retail theft.
“Chelsea’s impact, both internally and externally, has been substantial,” said Mike Teel. “Her insight, expertise and steady guidance helped drive meaningful progress for the communities we serve.”
Following the birth of twins in July and her return from maternity leave, Carbahal and company leadership aligned on a transition plan. Effective Jan. 16, she will launch CMC Strategies, a strategic advisory firm, with Raley’s as its inaugural client under a retainer agreement.
“Over the past decade, I’ve had the privilege of working alongside an exceptional team and contributing to a company whose mission has always inspired me,” Carbahal said. “As I begin this next chapter with CMC Strategies, I look forward to continuing our partnership and supporting the company’s vision in new and meaningful ways.”
Knopf added, “While we will miss working with Chelsea day-to-day, we look forward to continuing our partnership through CMC Strategies.”
Raley’s said a succession plan is in place, with an announcement regarding leadership responsibilities forthcoming.
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