Kroger Reveals Human Resources Succession Plan
The Kroger Co. is ready for an orderly transition of power in its human resources department.
The Cincinnati-based grocery giant has named Timothy Massa, the company's group VP of HR and labor relations, to succeed SVP of HR Kathleen Barclay, who plans to retire this fall.
Barclay joined Kroger in 2010 in her current position. During her tenture, she has strengthened the HR function to more strongly support and connect the company's family of associates with Kroger's growing and changing business.
"Katy has been a champion for our associates and a driving force for innovation in our human resources function," said Rodney McMullen, Kroger's chairman and CEO. "We deeply value her leadership and advice as a key member of our leadership team. We wish Katy and her family all the best."
Before joining Kroger, Barclay served as VP of global human resources for General Motors Corp. During her time with GM, she led the automaker's global human resources organization with a strong focus on building the company's strategic HR capability worldwide while focusing on building a strong footprint in emerging and growth markets.
Massa joined Kroger in 2010 as VP of corporate human resources and talent development. In April 2014, he was promoted to his current role, which included expanded responsibility for labor relations.
"Tim is an exceptional human resources leader and a trusted advisor to our entire senior management team," McMullen said. "His depth of HR experience, fluency with our business and unwavering commitment to our associates make him a perfect fit for this important role."
Before joining Kroger, Massa served in various HR leadership roles for 21 years at Procter & Gamble. He has an extensive global HR generalist background in leadership development, succession planning, performance management, strategy development, employee relations and engagement.
Kroger employs more than 375,000 associates who serve customers in 2,631 supermarkets and multidepartment stores in 34 states and the District of Columbia under two dozen local banner names including Kroger, City Market, Dillons, Food 4 Less, Fred Meyer, Fry's, Harris Teeter, Jay C, King Soopers, QFC, Ralphs and Smith's.