Kroger names new divisional president

Steve McKinney was named president of Kroger’s Fry’s Food Stores division in Arizona to succeed Jon Flora who passed away unexpectedly two weeks ago.

McKinney, 57, had previously served as vp of operations at Kroger’s Ralph’s division in California since 2007. The Fry’s division operates 119 stores in Arizona.

"In his 31 years with the company, Steve has demonstrated a deep knowledge of our industry, excellence in operations, and a passion for serving our customers and our associates," said Rodney McMullen, Kroger's president and COO. "Steve has the expertise and energy to lead Fry's in the years ahead. I know that he and our outstanding associates will continue to honor and sustain Fry's great legacy of associate engagement, service to our customers, and communities."

McKinney began his Kroger career in 1981 as a clerk with Florida Choice Supermarkets, a former Kroger banner, before advancing to roles as a store manager, buyer and field representative. In 1988, he joined Fry's Food Stores in Phoenix, where he served in various leadership positions, including store manager, deli director, and executive director of operations. In 1998, McKinney was named vp of operations at Fry's. In 2006, he was named vp operations for Kroger's Southwest division before moving to Ralphs in 2007.