Mi Pueblo Hires HR VP

Mi Pueblo Foods, a San Jose, Calif.-based Hispanic grocery chain, has appointed Jose Aguayo as its VP of human resources, effective immediately. In his new role, he will oversee employee relations for the grocer's stores across northern California and its corporate office, while also developing training programs to ensure associates have the tools to succeed in their roles. Aguayo will also lead staffing and recruitment efforts at the corporate and store levels, as well as work on benefit programs for the company's 2,000-plus employees.

"Our people – our colaboradores – are our greatest asset, which is why it was extremely important for us to find someone with relevant experience, who also understands our corporate culture, values and vision," explained Mi Pueblo CEO and President Javier Ramirez. "Jose possesses the leadership and management skills needed to improve our current structure, and lead us to become one of northern California's best workplaces."

Before coming to Mi Pueblo, Aguayo spent more than a decade at El Super in Southern California, where he managed human resources for more than 5,000 employees at 46 stores. In the role of corporate director, he created training programs on customer service, sexual harassment, safety and management; led hiring efforts; and managed the company's benefits, in addition to workers' compensation and general liability programs. Earlier in his career, Aguayo held human resources positions at Venquest Hotel Group and Disneyland Resorts.

Mi Pueblo Food Center operates 21 locations in the Bay Area, Monterey Peninsula and Central Valley of northern California.