Meijer fills new COO role

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Meijerannounced Friday the appointment of J.K. Symancyk to the newly created role of COO for the company, along with the addition of Peter Whitsett to the Meijer team as EVP merchandising and marketing.

“I am extremely pleased to announce this new role for J.K., as well as the addition of Peter Whitsett to the Meijer team,” said Hank Meijer, co-chairman and chief executive officer of Meijer. “As we position our company for continued growth, it’s essential that we have the proper structure and talent. This evolution of our leadership team under Mark Murray will help ensure our company’s on-going success in a very competitive industry.”

Symancyk will report directly to Mark Murray, president of Meijer, and will have three direct reports: Janet Emerson, EVP retail operations; Rick Keyes, EVP supply chain and manufacturing; and Peter Whitsett, who will join the company as EVP merchandising and marketing, the role previously held by Symancyk.

Whitsett most recently served as EVP global merchandising for Dick’s Sporting Goods and has an extensive background in leadership roles with retail brands including Kmart and Radio Shack.