Delhaize names new CEO

Brussels, Belgium – Delhaize Group has named Franz Muller as CEO, effective Nov. 8. Muller will succeed Pierre-Olivier Beckers, who will remain available to advise the new CEO until year-end and continue to serve on the board of directors in a non-executive capacity thereafter.



Muller, 52, has more than 15 years of senior leadership experience in retail, most recently as a member of the management board of Metro AG and CEO of Metro Cash & Carry. He will start with Delhaize on Oct. 14, prior to assuming the role of CEO.



“The company is on track with its strategic priorities for the year and is focused on the areas that deliver the highest growth and returns,” said Muller. “I am looking forward to leading the company, working with the executive committee and 160,000 Delhaize associates to build on the company’s current momentum.”



The move is not a surprise, as Beckers first announced he would step down as CEO in May of this year. Delhaize is in the midst of a turnaround effort that includes overhauling its U.S. business.



Delhaize Group also announced that Roland Smith is resigning today from his role as CEO of Delhaize America but will be available as a senior advisor to the CEO until the end of the year. Following Smith’s departure, the company’s U.S. operations will report to the Delhaize Group CEO.