Cincinnati, February 9, 2026 — Grocery giant Kroger Co. has appointed Greg Foran, a former senior Walmart executive and ex-CEO of Air New Zealand, as its new chief executive officer, ending a nearly year-long leadership search, the company announced Monday. Foran’s appointment follows the departure of long-time CEO Rodney McMullen, who resigned in March 2025 amid an internal investigation into conduct deemed inconsistent with company policy. Interim CEO Ronald “Ron” Sargent, who took over leadership last year, will remain as chairman of the board during the transition. Greg Foran Foran, 6

Cincinnati, February 9, 2026 — Grocery giant Kroger Co. has appointed Greg Foran, a former senior Walmart executive and ex-CEO of Air New Zealand, as its new chief executive officer, ending a nearly year-long leadership search, the company announced Monday. Foran’s appointment follows the departure of long-time CEO Rodney McMullen, who resigned in March 2025 amid an internal investigation into conduct deemed inconsistent with company policy. Interim CEO Ronald “Ron” Sargent, who took over leadership last year, will remain as chairman of the board during the transition.

Greg Foran

Foran, 64, is credited with turning around Walmart U.S. between 2014 and 2019, overseeing improvements in store operations and digital services that helped drive sustained sales growth. He most recently led Air New Zealand, guiding the airline through pandemic disruptions and operational changes. Investors responded positively to the announcement, with Kroger’s stock rising about 6% in premarket trading Monday. Analysts say Foran’s deep retail experience and track record in digital and store innovation could help Kroger compete against rivals, including Walmart and discount grocers, in a challenging consumer market. The company said it will provide further details on Foran’s strategic priorities during its March earnings call.

A little more informed. A little more connected.