GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. – Meijer, the Grand Rapids-based retailer, announced today the appointment of J.K. Symancyk to the newly created role of Chief Operating Officer for the company, along with the addition of Peter Whitsett to the Meijer team as Executive Vice President of Merchandising and Marketing.
“I am extremely pleased to announce this new role for J.K., as well as the addition of Peter Whitsett to the Meijer team,” said Hank Meijer, co-chairman and chief executive officer of the Grand Rapids, Mich.-based retailer. “As we position our company for continued growth, it’s essential that we have the proper structure and talent. This evolution of our leadership team under Mark Murray will help ensure our company’s on-going success in a very competitive industry.”
Symancyk will report directly to Mark Murray, president of Meijer, and will have three direct reports: Janet Emerson, Executive Vice President of Retail Operations; Rick Keyes, Executive Vice President of Supply Chain and Manufacturing; and Peter Whitsett, who will join the company as Executive Vice President for Merchandising and Marketing, the role previously held by Symancyk.
Whitsett most recently served as executive vice president of Global Merchandising for ’s Sporting Goods and has an extensive background in leadership roles with retail brands including Kmart and Radio Shack.
“Retail Operations, Supply Chain, Manufacturing, and Merchandizing and Marketing are key functions that drive our competitive success,” Murray said. “I am confident this organizational alignment will strengthen the company and help ensure continued success during 2012 and beyond.”
About Meijer:
Meijer is a Grand Rapids, Mich.-based retailer that operates 197 supercenters and grocery stores throughout Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois and Kentucky. As a pioneer of the "one-stop shopping" concept, Meijer stores have evolved through the years to include expanded fresh produce and meat departments, as well as pharmacies, comprehensive electronics departments, garden centers and apparel offerings. Additional information on Meijer and the ability to shop for more can be found at www.meijer.com. Follow Meijer on Twitter @twitter.com/Meijer or become a fan at www.facebook.com/meijer.
Source: Meijer
