Safeway's Russ Jackson Recognized for HR Excellence

Safeway Inc. SVP of human resources Russ Jackson has been recognized for his positive impact on both his company and industry in Human Resource Executive magazine’s 2012 HR Honor Roll.

Jackson will be formally honored by the publication on Oct. 9 at a black tie awards dinner at the University Club of Chicago.

Jackson and four other human resources professionals are featured in the publication’s October issue.  Each was chosen for their mastery of the profession, problem-solving skills, positive impact on their organization and contributions to the profession at large.

"Russ is a transformational architect within Safeway," said Safeway EVP, Larree Renda. "With his vision, insight and drive for results, he has built a human resources organization that is a powerful accelerator of change."

Jackson has been instrumental in strengthening Safeway’s leadership development efforts.  Human Resource Executive noted that Jackson "implemented a series of new programs aimed at recruiting ex-military personnel for key roles; reshaped the organization's competency model; and enhanced the organization's already highly regarded health initiatives."

Elevating the company's efforts to support veterans, Jackson and his team launched an initiative aimed at recruiting and developing former junior military officers for retail store management positions. Since the program launched in 2010, Safeway has raised the bar on military hiring each year. The company surpassed its goal of hiring more than 1,000 ex-military personnel by the end of 2012.

Jackson and his Benefits team have also made significant strides in the area of employee health and wellness. Employees at all levels are encouraged to participate in a range of programs from biometric testing to other wellness initiatives designed to help employees and their families make healthier choices.

Jackson joined Safeway in 2007 after a 27-year career with Pacific Gas & Electric, where he served as SVP, human resources. He holds a Business degree from San Jose State University and earned his MBA from St. Mary's College and a Master's degree in Human Resources and Organizational Development from the University of San Francisco, along with a certificate in Human Resources Management from the University of California at Berkeley. He has also achieved the designation of SPHR (Senior Professional in Human Resources) from the Human Resources Certification Institute.

Click here for the full text of the Human Resource Executive article.

Safeway Inc. operates 1,666 stores in the United States and western Canada.