Smart & Final Names Edward Wong CIO

Smart & Final has named Edward Wong chief information officer and SVP, supply chain, a role in which he will be responsible for managing the retailer’s supply chain, information technology (IT) and systems, and enterprise project management. He replaces Michael Laddon, who retired, and will report to President and CEO Dave Hirz.

Prior to joining Smart & Final, Wong spent six years with IBM as a partner in its global business services division, in both the United States and Japan. He also spent time at Charlotte Russe Holdings Inc., where he took on several supply chain and IT roles before being promoted to chief operating officer. His retail experience also includes roles in merchandise planning and allocation, as well as purchasing.

Wong graduated from the University of California San Diego with a Bachelor of Arts degree, and earned a master's degree from the University of Maryland.

“Ed brings a tremendous amount of leadership and experience to the team. We look forward to his contributions to Smart & Final’s continued growth,” said Hirz.

Smart & Final operates 290 stores in California, Oregon, Washington, Arizona, Nevada and Idaho, with an additional 15 stores in Northwestern Mexico operated through a joint venture.