Fresh Market seeks fresh CEO

The Fresh Market is heading into the new year with fresh leadership changes at the top.

The specielty grocery retailer announced that Craig Carlk, president and CEO, and a member of the board of directors, has left the company and has resigned as a member of the board.

The board has appointed Sean Crane, EVP and COO, as interim CEO while the company evaluates candidates to replace Carlock.

“Under Craig’s leadership, the company successfully transitioned from a private to a public company and experienced five consecutive years of increased sales and earnings,” said Ray Berry, founder of the company and chairman of the board. “The company is well positioned, both culturally and financially, for future success, and has a significant opportunity, through its unique and differentiated grocery shopping experience, to gain share in existing markets and expand into new markets. I further believe meaningful opportunities exist to improve profit margins through both structural and operational initiatives.”

Interim CEO Crane has 14 years of senior management experience with the Fresh Market. Additionally, Crane served as interim CFO from December 2012 to June 2013.

Berry added: “Sean is a strong executive and a proven leader, with significant experience and knowledge of the company and its operations. He has been instrumental in the development and execution of the Fresh Market’s growth strategies and a key player in its success. Sean has the Board’s full support to continue executing the company’s growth strategies and initiatives.”