Kroger Appoints Former Walmart Exec Greg Foran as CEO: Report

Cincinnati’s Kroger, a leading supermarket chain, is set to appoint Greg Foran as its new CEO. Foran, a former Walmart executive, will be the first outsider to assume this role. His appointment comes amidst significant transitions within the company following a recent internal ethics investigation.

Background on Greg Foran

Greg Foran, aged 64, previously managed Walmart’s U.S. store operations for five years, concluding in 2019. During his tenure, he successfully implemented strategies that revitalized Walmart’s business, resulting in 20 consecutive quarters of comparable sales growth. Following his time at Walmart, Foran led Air New Zealand from February 2020 to October 2025.

Challenges at Air New Zealand

Foran joined Air New Zealand just before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. His leadership was marked by several challenges, including supply chain disruptions and significant operational hurdles, such as the grounding of multiple aircraft.

Kroger’s Leadership Transition

Foran’s appointment will transition the leadership from interim CEO Ron Sargent, who has been in charge since Rodney McMullen’s unexpected resignation in March 2025. McMullen departed following an internal investigation, raising concerns about company ethics.

Impending Announcement

While Kroger officials have refrained from making public comments about the report, sources suggest an official announcement regarding Foran’s appointment could come as early as February 9, 2026.

Looking Ahead

With Greg Foran at the helm, Kroger aims to navigate new opportunities and challenges in the competitive grocery sector. His experience in operational excellence will be crucial as Kroger continues to innovate and adapt to changing consumer behaviors.

• Appointment Date: February 2026 (Tentative announcement)
• Previous Roles: Former CEO of Walmart U.S. operations and Air New Zealand
• Key Achievements: 20 quarters of growth at Walmart

As Kroger looks to enhance its market presence, the insights and leadership of a seasoned executive like Foran will serve to reinforce its strategic goals.