The Raley’s Companies Promotes Two Longtime Leaders Mike Gabbert and Donna Mendes; Keith Knopf Comments


Thu. July 11th, 2024 - by Anne Allen

WEST SACRAMENTO, CA - After recent news of a Chief’s retirement, The Raley’s Companies is back with even more leadership updates. The company recently announced the promotion of two leaders within its Enterprise and Raley’s Operating Division.

Mike Gabbert assumed the position of Senior Vice President, Chief of Human Resources. In this role, he will lead all aspects of HR, including talent acquisition, benefits, compensation, leadership and development, and team member relations. Mike is a proven leader, having worked for Raley’s for more than 40 years.

According to a press release, he began his career at Raley’s in HR but has vast experience across the company, including 19 years in store operations, and most recently leading Raley’s distribution and logistics.

Keith Knopf, President and Chief Executive Officer, The Raley's Companies

“We are fortunate to have Mike Gabbert, who is the epitome of dedication and service leadership. We are grateful for Mike’s willingness to serve in this elevated capacity,” added Keith Knopf, President and Chief Executive Officer. “We strongly believe promoting from within can lead to increased employee engagement, productivity, and overall success for the organization.”

Donna Mendes is Gabbert’s successor in distribution logistics for Raley’s operating division. She has been promoted to Executive Director of Logistics. She will lead the Natomas Distribution Center, including all supply chain planning and execution processes with internal stakeholders to increase the in-store availability of products.

Mike Gabbert (left) and Donna Mendes (right) have been promoted to the positions of Senior Vice President, Chief of Human Resources and Executive Director of Logistics, respectively

For the 27 years she’s been with Raley’s, Mendes led different in-store departments and held multiple operational leadership roles. Most recently, she served as a District Team Leader, leading store operations.

Jen Warner, President, Operating Division, Raley's

“Donna is a dynamic and trusted leader who is committed to Raley’s purpose and culture. Her broad expertise developed through store operations, and her focus on innovation, will allow us to further to enhance our business” said Jen Warner, President of Raley’s Operating Division. “We are excited to see the positive impact that Donna will make in logistics and supporting stores with the highest standard of service.”

Congratulations to both of these leaders on their new posts!