New Seasons CEO to Launch Healthy C-Store Chain

New Seasons Market CEO Lisa Sedlar is stepping down as president and CEO effective Nov. 2 to launch her own company of healthy convenience stores.

The Portland, Ore.-based chain of neighborhood grocery stores will be a minority investor in Sedlar’s company and is conducting a search for a new CEO.

Sedlar noted that the locally owned and operated chain is in a strong position, making this an appropriate time to make the change.

“I love New Seasons Market and am proud of the work we have done together to strengthen the company, the regional food economy and the local community,” said Sedlar. “We have an incredible staff of talented and committed people who live and advance our mission every day. We have expanded our relationships with home grown farmers, ranchers, fishers and food producers and put in place many policies and programs that model our commitment as a progressive workplace.”

Sedlar has made significant contributions to New Seasons Market, the regional food economy and the local community. Under her leadership, the company has grown to nearly 2,400 employees, opened eight stores with two more slated to open over the next two years. She has also worked on increasing food security through her service on the board of directors for Oregon Food Bank and The Portland Public Market, the advisory committees of Food Alliance and the Food Innovation Center, and as a progressive business leader on the board of the Oregon Business Association.

“We deeply appreciate the vision and leadership Lisa has brought to the company and the community—resulting in hundreds of new jobs, a stronger regional food economy, and deepening New Seasons Market’s commitment to investing in the local community," said co-founder and board member Stan Amy.  "We are excited to be the first investor in her new company that will open healthy convenience stores, create more jobs and strengthen our local foodshed.

Sedlar will work closely with New Seasons Market’s operating committee to ensure smooth operations through the transition period; the committee will be chaired by COO Pat Brown and will be comprised of members of the company’s leadership team.

New Seasons Market has 12 locations across the Portland-Vancouver area.