Former Big Lots exec joins the Pantry

CARY, N.C. — The Pantry, an independently operated convenience store chain in the southeastern United States, has appointed former Big Lots executive Boris Zelmanovich as the company’s SVP and CMO.

Zelmanovich will join the Pantry’s executive leadership team Monday, June 3, and will lead merchandising. He served as VP of merchandising strategy at Big Lots, where he was responsible for the development of strategic merchandising plans and repositioning the merchandising portfolio to drive market differentiation.

Prior to Big Lots, Zelmanovich held various VP positions in merchandising at Family Dollar where he was responsible for food, beverage, candy, general merchandise and household products categories. He has additional experience in supply chain management, management consulting and running his own business.

“Boris is a proven leader who possesses a depth of merchandising experience,” said CEO Dennis Hatchell. “He has a track record of growing sales, gross margin and market share.”

Zelmanovich earned a bachelor of science in logistics and transportation and marketing, and an MBA in supply chain management and information technology from the University of Tennessee.

The company operates 1,567 stores in 13 states under select banners, including its primary operating banner Kangaroo Express. The Pantry is one of the nation’s largest convenience store chains and the leading independently operated chain in the southeastern United States. The Pantry is headquartered in Cary, N.C.