Stater Bros. Names Phillip Smith Chairman

Stater Bros. Holdings Inc., parent company of Stater Bros. Markets, has elected current Vice Chairman Phillip J. Smith as chairman of Stater Bros. Markets, following the recent passing of Executive Chairman and former longtime CEO Jack H. Brown.

In his new role, Smith will provide guidance and leadership to the company's executives and officers, ensuring the continuity of Stater Bros.' operations and brand. Smith has been a member of the Stater Bros. “family” for nearly 30 years and has more than 40 years of experience in the supermarket industry. In 2012, Smith became vice chairman, appointed by Brown.

“I am honored to have been elected to the position of chairman of the board of Stater Bros. Markets,” Smith said. “I knew Jack for over 40 years and worked closely with him at three different companies. I learned a great deal from Jack’s mentorship and feel privileged to carry on the values and traditions Jack established while ensuring the company remains competitive in the Southern California supermarket industry."

Smith joined Stater Bros. in 1987 as controller. In 1998, he became VP-controller, and in 2000, he was promoted to VP-controller and chief accounting officer (CAO). Later that year, he was promoted to SVP, CFO and CAO, and in 2006, he was promoted to EVP finance, CFO and CAO.

Prior to joining Stater Bros., Smith was VP and CFO at Market Basket Food Stores in East Texas from 1984 to 1987. From 1975 to 1984, he was VP and controller for various divisions of Cullum Cos. Inc., in Dallas.

“Given Jack’s unwavering trust in Phil and long history of working together both within and outside of Stater Bros., I welcome and look forward to Phil’s mentorship and direction,” said Stater Bros. President and CEO Pete Van Helden.

Smith has also been elected to the position of chairman, president and CEO of Stater Bros. Holdings.

San Bernardino, Calif.-based Stater Bros. Markets operates 169 stores and employs approximately 18,000 associates.