Allegiance Retail Services LLC has named Mike Conese EVP of merchandising, effective Sept. 14, returning a familiar leader to the Iselin, New Jersey-based cooperative as it rebuilds its merchandising bench following a summer of leadership transition.
Conese, who previously served as Allegiance’s VP of center store and was central to the co-op’s 2022 selection of KeHE as its primary natural and specialty distribution partner, will report directly to Samer Rahman, president and COO. The appointment fills the merchandising leadership gap created when Rahman, formerly EVP and chief merchandising officer, was promoted to the co-op’s top operating role in July.
In the role, Conese will provide strategic direction for Allegiance’s merchandising functions, focusing on category management, promotional programs, vendor partnerships, competitive positioning and overall value for the cooperative’s independent retail members.
“Mike is a proven leader who understands our business, our members, and the importance of strong relationships with our vendor and supplier partners,” said Rahman. “He brings tremendous merchandising knowledge and industry experience to this position, and I am confident he will make an immediate and positive impact on our organization.”
According to LinkedIn, Conese returns to Allegiance from New Jersey brokerage firm RDD Associates, where he most recently served as SVP of business development and revenue generation.
Leadership investment
The hire continues a stretch of leadership investment at the co-op, which elected Jason Ferreira chairman and CEO in May and promoted Rahman two months later.
“Our members are at the center of everything we do,” Rahman added. “As we look toward the future, we remain focused on providing them with the programs, resources, leadership, and competitive advantages they need to grow their businesses. Mike’s return strengthens our leadership team and reinforces that commitment.”
Allegiance supports independent supermarket operators under banners including Foodtown, Pathmark, Gristedes, D’Agostino and Green Way Markets, providing merchandising, marketing, advertising, technology and operations services through its cooperative structure.
Related: Allegiance Retail Services Promotes Rahman To President, COO