Raley's COO Knopf Adds 'President' to Title
West Sacramento, Calif.-based Raley's has promoted its COO, Keith Knopf, to the role of president and COO.
Knopf, who joined the grocer nearly two years ago, will continue to report to Michael Teel, Raley's owner and CEO, who took majority ownership around the time Knopf joined. Teel will continue to direct the development of Raley's overall strategic plan.
“It is a historic time for Raley’s, and in my life,” Teel stated. “We took our time to find and hire Keith. He has exceeded my expectations in his less than two years here as Chief Operating Officer and earned the opportunity to take on the role of President & COO.”
A proven Fortune 200 leader with more than 25 years of retail experience and in leadership roles at companies such as Kohl’s, Victoria’s Secret and May Co., Knopf has brought a strong balance of strategy and execution to the Raley’s executive leadership team. He believes in delivering a personalized customer experience and engaging team members in the company’s purpose. Knopf models servant leadership.
Teel will spend more of his time in the community encouraging organizations to join Raley’s in helping consumers make more nutritious food choices to lead healthier and happier lives. He will work with vendors, farmers, government, nonprofit organizations, businesses and schools to help Raley’s affect change.
“As owner and CEO, I intend to stay involved in the business – focused more on where we are going in the future and how we can realize our vision and purpose,” Teel said. “I am committed to continuing to build on our strong culture, and to support the passion our people have to infuse life with health and happiness by changing the way our customers eat, one plate at a time.”
As part of his commitment to the company’s team member experience, Teel promoted SVP, HR and Labor Relations Mark Foley to chief people officer, overseeing the human resources and legal departments. Since returning to Raley’s in 2013, Foley has helped Teel re-energize the culture, motivating team members to personally connect to the company’s purpose.
“I believe Raley’s will make a difference and is well-poised for future growth and longevity with our 11,000 team members and this strong leadership team,” Teel said.
Raley’s operates 121 stores in Northern California and Nevada under four banners: Raley’s Supermarkets, Bel Air Markets, Nob Hill Foods and Food Source.