Kroger Announces Leadership Changes to Enhance Operations and Customer Experience

The Kroger Co. (NYSE:KR) has announced leadership changes to strengthen operations and enhance customer experience. Ed Oldham joins as Head of Sourcing, and Ann Reed becomes Group Vice President of Our Brands. Jake Cannon takes over as Cincinnati-Dayton president, and Josh Harpole replaces Cannon as Vice President of Deli, Bakery, and Prepared Foods. CEO Ron Sargent expects these changes to bring deep operational knowledge, customer focus, and community commitment to the company.

The Kroger Co. (NYSE:KR), one of the largest food and drug retailers in the U.S., has announced significant leadership changes aimed at strengthening its operations and enhancing customer experience. The changes, effective July 29, 2025, include the appointment of Ed Oldham as Head of Sourcing, Ann Reed as Group Vice President of Our Brands, Jake Cannon as Cincinnati-Dayton President, and Josh Harpole as Vice President of Deli, Bakery, and Prepared Foods.

Ed Oldham, who brings over 25 years of retail and supply chain experience, previously served at PetSmart. He joins Kroger as Head of Sourcing, a crucial role in ensuring efficient and effective supply chain management. Ann Reed, with decades of merchandising and leadership experience, including her tenure as president of the Cincinnati-Dayton division, will now serve as Group Vice President of Our Brands. Jake Cannon, previously president of the Louisville division, takes over the role of Cincinnati-Dayton president. Josh Harpole, who previously worked as Vice President of Deli, Bakery, and Prepared Foods, replaces Cannon in his former role.

CEO Ron Sargent expects these leadership changes to bring deep operational knowledge, a strong customer focus, and a commitment to the community to Kroger. The changes are part of the company's strategy to navigate a competitive market and ensure sustained growth.

These appointments follow a series of leadership transitions and strategic moves by Kroger. In August 2025, Kroger agreed to settle a lawsuit filed by another grocery store operator as part of the failed $24.6 billion deal to acquire Albertsons Cos. Inc. [2]

Kroger's stock has been under scrutiny, with some analysts suggesting that certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. However, the company's inclusion in Warren Buffett's portfolio and strong hedge fund interest indicates its continued appeal to investors [1].

References:
[1] https://uk.finance.yahoo.com/news/kroger-co-kr-announces-leadership-043931766.html
[2] https://www.bizjournals.com/cincinnati/news/2025/08/11/kroger-settles-cs-lawsuit-failed-albertsons-deal.html