A&P Vet Now Rite Aid’s Group VP of Construction

Rite Aid Corp. has hired David Kelly to the position of group VP of construction, effective May 31. Kelly’s most recent position was SVP of real estate and development for the Montvale, N.J.-based Great Atlantic & Pacific Tea Co. (A&P).

In his new role, Kelly, a development and real estate veteran with more than 25 years experience, will assume overall responsibility for all store planning and construction services. He will additionally play a major role in the drug store retailer’s various segmentation initiatives, including wellness stores, value stores and co-branded Save-A-Lot Rite Aid stores. Kelly will report directly to Frank Vitrano, Rite Aid’s senior EVP, CFO and chief administrative officer.

“His proven ability and experience with a diverse portfolio of retail projects will be a valuable asset to the company, especially as we continue to implement and grow our segmentation strategies,” said Vitrano.

Kelly began his retail career in 1987 as a construction project manager at Pathmark Stores Inc., rising through the ranks to hold such positions as purchasing manager, director of purchasing and maintenance, and VP of engineering and construction. In 2003, he became EVP of engineering and construction, a position he held until Pathmark was acquired by A&P in December 2007.

Camp Hill, Pa.-based Rite Aid operates more than 4,700 stores in 31 states and the District of Columbia.