Monica Garnes has been tapped to become Kroger’s first African-American division leader, according to a press release sent to EBONY.
Garnes is currently the corporate vice president of produce-floral merchandising. She will succeed Steve McKinney in his promotion to senior vice president of retail divisions for the company, effective Feb. 5.
Garnes launched her career with Kroger back in 1995. She joined the management training program in the Columbus division, and has held a variety of leadership roles in her 23 years with the company. During her tenure, she has served as a human resources coordinator, produce buyer, store manager, public affairs manager and district manager before advancing to her current position within Kroger.
Garnes has been in her current role since 2015.
“Monica is a recognized leader in our business and across the industry,” said Mike Donnelly, Kroger’s executive vice president and chief operating officer.. “She combines a willingness to embrace fresh ideas with a keen business savvy that yields real results. As the company’s first African-American division president, we are excited to have Monica drive and influence change in our company through her expertise and perspective, and we are eager for her to bring her passion for people and results to Fry’s.”
Fry’s is headquartered in Tolleson, Arizona. The company employs more than 122,000 associates and operates 123 stores nationwide.
Congratulations to Ms. Garnes!
