How Will Former Walmart US CEO Lead Kroger's Next Phase?

Following the departure of its long-time CEO Rodney McMullen in March 2025, The Kroger Co. has finally found a permanent replacement.

Announced on 9 February, the American food retail company confirmed that its Board of Directors has appointed Greg Foran as its CEO, Walmart US’ former CEO, effective immediately.

He is replacing Ron Sargent who has served as interim CEO since Rodney resigned following an investigation into his personal conduct.

Kroger’s Board conducted an extensive process to identify an innovative retail leader with a strong track record, according to the company, and Greg fills that brief.

Discussing his appointment in the company’s announcement, Ron said: “Greg is a highly respected operator who knows how to run large-scale retail businesses, strengthen store execution and lead high-performing teams.

“His leadership style, focus on customer, commitment to associates and disciplined approach to execution are the perfect fit for Kroger.”

He added that the Board is confident that he’s the right leader.

Who is Greg Foran?

With over 40 years of experience leading large consumer businesses through transformation, growth and digital adoption, Greg is widely known for his time as Walmart US CEO between 2014 and 2019.

He is credited with the retailer’s high-stakes turnaround, revitalising the firm’s largest division by focusing on the basics, such as improving fresh food quality.

Greg also accelerated Walmart’s digital capabilities, including the rollout of online ordering and pickup, accelerating innovation and growth across the company.

As a hands-on leader, he was known for focusing on flawless store-level execution and operational fundamentals, but also raising wages for hundreds of thousands of workers and implementing educational certification programmes.

During his tenure, he delivered positive comparable sales growth for 20 consecutive quarters and managed more than 4,500 stores and one million associates.

Consistent leadership

Greg most recently served as CEO of Air New Zealand between February 2020 to October 2025, where he led end-to-end digital transformation to improve the customer experience and make a more agile business.

He guided the airline through the COVID-19 pandemic, led complex union negotiations and managed multiple supply chain crises.

"Kroger is one of the most dynamic companies in retail," the new CEO said. "The company is built on a strong foundation, supported by a talented leadership team and caring associates who are dedicated to the customers and communities they serve."

He added: "At this moment in Kroger's journey, I can honestly say this is the best job on the planet. I look forward to working with the Board and the entire team to build on this momentum, continue raising the bar for customers and deliver long-term value for customers, associates and shareholders."

Positive financial outlook

With the new appointment, Kroger says it is reaffirming its previously issued fiscal year 2025 guidance and "remains committed to delivering sustainable value for shareholders".

Updated in December 2025, the retailer said it's adjusted EPS from US$4.75 to US$4.80, operating profits from US$4.8bn to US$4.9bn and free cash flow from US$2.8bn to US$3bn.

The guidance reflects continued investment in digital capabilities, store renovations and supply chain improvements. Greg will lead Kroger in continuing to focus its strategy on growing its private-label portfolio and utilising AI-driven technology.