Albertsons Names Mike Withers EVP, Retail Ops

Albertsons Cos. has promoted current Jewel-Osco Division President Mike Withers to the role of EVP, retail operations for Albertsons Cos. In his new position, Withers will lead the company’s East Region operations, while current EVP, Retail Operations Susan Morris heads the West Region and EVP, Retail Operations Special Projects Jim Perkins focuses on targeted initiatives to accelerate growth. All three will continue to report to President and COO Wayne Denningham.

“Mike is an exceptional leader who understands our business and market areas from coast to coast," noted Denningham, who was recently appointed company president in addition to his existing COO title. “Throughout his career, Mike has worked closely with many members of our current leadership team, and his management experience and operations expertise will help all of our divisions run really great stores.”

Beginning his Albertsons career in 1976 as a courtesy clerk in Boise, Idaho, Withers rose through the ranks until he was running his own store. He then became a district manager in both Washington and Florida, and was eventually promoted to Big Sky Division president with responsibilities for store operations in Montana and North Dakota, also holding comparable roles in both the Florida and Portland divisions. Since 2006, Withers been VP of marketing and merchandising for the Florida and Southern divisions, and president of the Southern and Jewel-Osco divisions.

He will be based at the company’s Boise corporate campus.

Albertsons operates stores in 35 states and the District of Columbia under 19 banners, including Albertsons, Safeway, Vons, Jewel-Osco, Shaw’s, Acme, Tom Thumb, Randalls, United Supermarkets, Pavilions, Star Market, Haggen and Carrs.