President of the Mid-South division of Kroger, John Hackett, is set to retire on June 29.
He began his 50 year career with the company in 1963 as a store clerk. After graduating from Ohio State University and completing the Kroger management training program, he held a variety of marketing and operations roles in the Columbus and Indianapolis divisions. He then proceeded to work his way up to division president; a position he has held for the past 23 years.
“During his 50-year career, John has consistently demonstrated his passion for and commitment to our associates, our customers and our local communities. In addition to being a great executive, John is a first class human being and person. When you define a gentleman the definition is John Hackett,” said President and Chief Operating Officer Rodney McMullen.During his 29 year stint in Louisville, the division grew from 55 to 161 stores and sales increased more than ten-fold. He also was a leader in implementing a safety initiative that reduced accidents by 70%.
“We thank John and his wife Kay for their many years of dedicated service and wish them the best in retirement. I am sure John will remain involved in serving the Kroger family through his community service, passionately advocating for the causes that matter deeply to John and his family,” said McMullen.
Kroger
