Kroger CEO Steps Down Amid Personal Conduct Probe
Kroger announced Monday that CEO Rodney McMullen has stepped down from the grocery chain, effective immediately, following an internal investigation into his personal conduct. While details were scarce, the company emphasized the matter did not involve other Kroger employees, nor was it tied to any financial or operational misconduct. No specific allegations were provided, but the board determined his actions conflicted with Kroger’s “long-standing ethics and policies.”
Veteran board member Ronald Sargent will assume the role of interim CEO until the retailer selects a permanent replacement. McMullen’s sudden departure concludes a 47-year journey at Kroger, which he joined as a part-time stock clerk in 1978. Over the years, he ascended through several leadership positions, eventually becoming CEO in 2014.
Despite the unexpected leadership shake-up, Kroger’s broader business remains on track, according to the company statement. However, analysts note this comes just months after the chain terminated its planned $25 billion merger with Albertsons amid regulatory hurdles, indicating a time of elevated scrutiny. Kroger shares fell around 1% in premarket trading following the announcement.
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