Walgreens announces internal exec shifts

DEERFIELD, Ill. Walgreens today announced the promotion of Kenneth E. Amos from director to divisional vp of loss prevention and named William T. Grayson, a.k.a. Tom, to the new position of vp of pharmacy acquisitions. Grayson previously served as vp of store operations.

"Ken's [Amos] new position recognizes the growing importance of loss prevention to our business," stated chairman and ceo Jeffrey A. Rein. "Under his direction, Walgreens has become a leader working with other retailers and law enforcement in fighting organized retail crime. Ken looks at loss prevention from a realistic, business view and trains our staffs to prevent problems, as opposed to reacting once they occur."

Amos joined Walgreens in 1973 as a stock clerk when he was in high school and continued to work for the company after graduating college. He was named a store manager in 1981, was promoted to district manager in 1990 and was named director of loss prevention in 2002.

Grayson, as vp of pharmacy acquisitions, will direct Walgreens pharmacy acquisitions through prescription file buyouts and purchases of smaller drugstore chains.

"These transactions work out well for both us and the local pharmacy owner," stated Rein. "Tom's [Grayson's] pharmacy and operations background will help us find the right opportunities and ensure smooth transitions for these new patients and employees."

Grayson joined the company in 1968 and became a store manager in 1972. He was promoted to district manager in 1989 and then to vp of store operations in 2003.