Safeway bumps Minasi to marketing head

PLEASANTON, Calif. Safeway has promoted of Michael Minasi to president of marketing. He reports to Steven Burd, the company's chairman, president and ceo.

Minasi had been serving as senior vp of marketing, overseeing advertising, brand management and marketing strategies. Recently he also assumed responsibility for the company's private-label marketing and online shopping functions.

Minasi joined Safeway in 1996. Prior to that he held numerous positions with Toys "R" Us, including director of international advertising and marketing. In that capacity he was responsible for advertising and brand development for all markets outside the U.S.