Smart & Final Appoints SVP and General Counsel

Smart & Final Stores has named Leland P. Smith as its SVP and general counsel, in which he'll manage the company's legal function and lead corporate strategic and tactical legal initiatives. 

“Lee Smith has a long track record of success in corporate law. We look forward to his counsel and organizational expertise,” said President/CEO Dave Hirz, to whom Smith will report.

Prior to joining Smart & Final, Smith spent four years as SVP and general counsel for Douglas Emmett Inc., a Santa Monica-based real estate investment trust. He's also served in senior positions with Guitar Center, Equity Marketing Inc., and Mattel.

Commerce, Calif.-based Smart & Final Stores Inc. operates 276 grocery and foodservice stores under the Smart & Final, Smart & Final Extra! and Cash & Carry Smart Foodservice banners in California, Oregon, Washington, Arizona, Nevada and Idaho, with an additional 15 stores in northern Mexico operated through a joint venture.