CINCINNATI, OH - Embracing diversity often paves new paths for growth, and Kroger knows this well. The grocer's Board of Directors has been named a top 20 finalist for the 2022 NACD Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DE&I) Awards. The coveted award recognizes Boards that have implemented forward-thinking DEI practices to improve their operations and drive value for stakeholders.
"As America's grocer, Kroger is driven to bring Americans together as an employer, grocery provider, and community partner, representing Our Purpose to Feed the Human Spirit," said Rodney McMullen, Kroger's Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. "We are proud to receive this recognition; however, our work continues. We will continue to listen, learn, and act to transform our culture and our communities. I am especially proud of our associates who embody Our Values and so honestly shared their insights that were instrumental in shaping Kroger's Framework for Action."
Kroger's Board of Directors is an independent Board with 64 percent of the body representing diversity by gender or race/ethnicity.
According to a press release, the Board holds management accountable for delivering and executing the company's DE&I goals and encourages continued investments to achieve measurable change, including its ongoing commitment to develop a workforce that better reflects the racial and ethnic diversity of its communities.
"We believe this work is never complete," said Ronald Sargent, Lead Director, The Kroger Co. "Under the board's leadership, we have achieved important progress, and we will continue to support investments and policies that improve diversity, equity, and inclusion for Kroger associates and our communities. The Board is honored to be recognized by NACD."
Kroger established its Framework for Action: Diversity, Equity & Inclusion plan to accelerate and promote greater change in 2020. The comprehensive plan includes five key areas of focus:
- Create More Inclusive Culture
- Develop Diverse Talent
- Diverse Partnerships
- Advance Equitable Communities
- Deeply Listen and Report Progress
"Kroger has worked to achieve great strides in creating an equitable boardroom," said NACD President and Chief Executive Officer Peter Gleason. "NACD is proud to honor the Kroger Board of Directors for advancing DE&I in their boardroom and throughout their organization."
Winners of the awards will be honored during the NACD DE&I Awards Gala at Gotham Hall in New York City on Wednesday, December 7, 2022. To read more about Kroger's DE&I framework, click here.
Congrats to Kroger for gaining recognition for its impressive initiatives!
