Albertsons Companies names former eBay CEO to newly-created board role
Albertsons Companies has named Meg Whitman as executive chair — in a role that will also have added responsibilities.
With Whitman’s appointment to the newly created role, Kim Fennebresque has transitioned from chair to lead independent director, and the board has expanded from 10 to 11 members. Whitman will work to support Susan Morris, CEO of Albertsons Cos., and her entire senior team.
Whitman served as president and CEO of eBay Inc. from 1998 to 2008, as the company grew from $30 million to more than $8 billion in annual revenue and defined personal e-commerce. From 2011 to 2018, Whitman led Hewlett-Packard and transformed the company’s performance in computing and information technology services.
In addition to leading the Albertsons board, Whitman will serve as an operations and strategic advisor to Morris and her senior team. Whitman will provide support as Morris sharpens strategy, strengthens execution and increases profitable growth. Whitman’s experience will be particularly relevant as Morris continues to streamline the operating structure around AI technologies and a more consistent customer experience across stores and digital channels, the company said.
Whitman will also work with Morris to refine the company’s long-term strategy.
“Meg has a remarkable track record of helping companies strengthen execution, accelerate growth and create long-term value,” said Morris. “As we focus on moving faster and competing more effectively, Meg’s strategic judgment, operating discipline and technology expertise will be invaluable.”
“Meg is an ideal leader to join Albertsons’ Board of Directors,” said Fennebresque. “Her appointment underscores the board’s commitment to bring proven technology expertise and transformation leadership to all aspects of the business. Meg’s role as executive chair complements Susan’s leadership abilities as the company accelerates plans to compete and win.”
Whitman served as United States Ambassador to Kenya from July 2022 until November 2024. From March 2018 until February 2021, Whitman served as the CEO of Quibi, a Los Angeles-based entertainment startup.
