CINCINNATI, OH - Russ Dispense, President of the Kroger branch King Soopers, has announced his plan to retire July 1st of this year.
Dispense has been with King Soopers for 51 years, joining as a courtesy clerk in 1965 and working his way up to help lead the company in various roles for the last five decades, and serving his current role for the last 15 years.
"Throughout his distinguished career, Russ has always been known for his passion for the community, King Soopers and for people,” Rodney McMullen, Kroger's Chairman and CEO, said in a press release. “His desire to see those who work with him grow and develop has changed the lives of our associates and touched the lives of our customers.”
A successor has not yet been named, though Kroger did note that would be addressed at a later date.
"Under Russ's leadership, King Soopers has grown significantly while remaining Colorado's favorite grocery store in a highly-competitive market,” McMullen continued. “Russ will end his incredible career as our longest-serving King Soopers President. We are grateful for his many years of exceptional service and leadership, and wish him, Debbie and their family all the best in retirement.”
During his tenure with King Soopers, Dispense has served in the following roles:
- Vice President of Retail Operations and Merchandising for the King Soopers Division (1983)
- Vice President of Real Estate
- President of Smith's Food and Drug Stores in Salt Lake City (1999)
- President of King Soopers/City Market Division (2001)
Not only has he served in various leadership roles throughout stores, warehouses, manufacturing plants, and administrative offices, but Dispense is also a member on the Board of Directors for Western Association of Food Chains and has previously served as Past Chairman of the Board for the Better Business Bureau, the Board of Directors for the Mountain States Employers Council, and the Rocky Mountain Food Dealers Association, as well as the State of Colorado Governor's Advisory Council.
A Colorado native and married to his wife Debbie for 46 years, Dispense has two children and five grandchildren.
Congratulations to Mr. Dispense on this newest chapter and a successful career in the industry.
