Associated Food Stores announced several leadership and departmental changes this week aimed at better aligning its Value Chain structure with long-term strategic priorities and evolving retailer needs.
Effective immediately, David Panter has been named vice president of business intelligence. In this new role, David will lead the implementation of cross-functional projects and work closely with internal teams to improve processes and information flow throughout the value chain.
“David has played a pivotal role in shaping how we think about information and execution across departments,” said Glen Keysaw, executive vice president of value chain. “This new position will allow him to focus even more on the initiatives that help us work smarter and move faster.”
Boyd Irving will transition to vice president of center store. In this capacity, he will take over leadership of the team members who previously reported to David. The company also plans to post Boyd’s former role, director of Exclusive Brands, as it continues to grow its private-label program.
“We’re excited to have Boyd step into this key role,” Keysaw said. “His experience and leadership will help drive center store forward at a time when consumer expectations are rapidly changing.”
To further streamline operations and improve alignment with retail, the dairy department will move under center store. As part of that shift, Bryan Simonson will now report to Lon Herget.
In addition, Todd Jensen will take on leadership of specialty foods, alongside his current responsibilities in the fresh departments. His expanded role will support growth in AFS’s ONSHELF initiative.
“Todd’s deep understanding of retail and his passion for delivering great results make him a natural fit for this expanded position,” Glen said. “This change will help us continue to grow our specialty foods offerings in a way that meets the evolving needs of our shoppers.”
“For more than 85 years, AFS has adapted to better serve our retailers,” Glen said. “Change can be challenging, but it’s also an opportunity. These updates are about investing in the future—improving how we work, how we serve and how we grow.”