Pete Van Helden, EVP of retail operations, will leave Supervalu this spring. The Eden Prairie, Minn.-based company said in a new release that the decision was “mutually beneficial” and that it “comes at the right time … as the company continues to implement its business transformation strategy.
“Pete has been a passionate leader of our retail businesses for many years, beginning his career with Albertsons in 1978. During his 34 years with the organization, Pete ran stores, drove integration after corporate mergers and acquisitions, and set strategy for the retail divisions,” said Craig Herkert, CEO and president of Supervalu. “We will miss his active voice in our company and wish him all the best as he takes on new challenges outside of Supervalu.”
Van Helden’s departure leads to the appointment of Kevin Holt, a former Meijer executive who Supervalu said “has significant experience leading teams in similar turnaround environments.
“He is accomplished at helping businesses streamline costs and enhance retail execution while strengthening employee morale,” the news release states.
Holt will join Supervalu as EVP of retail operations in late May, reporting to Herkert, and will work closely with Van Helden to ensure a smooth transition.
During his 13-year career with Meijer, Holt held a number of leadership positions, including roles in information technology and strategic planning. He successfully improved sales and profits, increased productivity and efficiency, and strengthened customer engagement.
After leaving Meijer as EVP of retail operations in 2007, Holt spent three years with Sears Holding, where he went on to become EVP and president of stores. He most recently served as president of Hudsonville Ice Cream and Kilwin’s Quality Confections in Michigan.
“Kevin is a seasoned retail executive who understands the importance of combining enterprise leverage, merchandising and passionate customer-focused execution. He has broad experience improving company performance and knows how to build strong retail teams,” Herkert said. “We believe he has the right blend of experience to help Supervalu deliver on the promise of its business transformation, which involves investing in fair prices and delivering a differentiated hyperlocal retail experience.”
