Ahold USA Makes Merchandising Executive Moves

Don Sussman, president of the Stop & Shop New York Metro division, has been appointed EVP of merchandising at the banner’s parent company, Carlisle, Pa.-based Ahold USA. Additionally, Bob Yager will rejoin the Stop & Shop New York Metro division as SVP and division lead, and Ahold USA SVP of Merchandising Strategy and Support Nick Bertram will expand his responsibilities.

Sussman brings to his new role more than 37 years of retail experience, including leadership positions in marketing and merchandising, and he has headed three of the four Ahold USA retail divisions. He replaces Andrew Iacobucci, who has decided to leave the company to work outside of the grocery industry.

In Yager’s new position, he will oversee day-to-day operations of the New York Metro divisional leadership team. Previously, he was SVP of supply chain with Retail Business Services, an Ahold Delhaize company.

Bertram’s new responsibilities include day-to-day merchandising operations, the ongoing integration work with Delhaize America, and vendor collaboration. During his nearly four years at Ahold USA, he has played a key role in improving merchandising operations and strategy, according to the company.

“We wish Andrew all the best and thank him for his contributions during his time at Ahold USA,” said COO Kevin Holt. “We are fortunate to have a strong merchandising leadership team in place. I am confident these appointments will continue the excellent merchandising support of our strong local brands and help them to accelerate and drive their businesses forward.”

A company of Ahold Delhaize, Ahold USA supports four regional divisions – Stop & Shop New England, Stop & Shop New York Metro, Giant Landover, and Giant Carlisle – that together operate about 780 supermarkets with 115,000 associates in 14 states and the District of Columbia, along with e-grocer Peapod.