Haggen Inc. yesterday said it has promoted Becky Skaggs to v.p. of strategy and consumer insights, responsible for strategic projects, market and consumer research, consumer affairs, and public relations.

"Skaggs has played a crucial role in the growth of Haggen, successfully executing many strategic projects," said Dale C. Henley, Haggen's president and c.e.o., of the newly promoted exec.

Skaggs started at Haggen in 1992 while still a math student at Western Washington University. A longtime company officer and member of Haggen's executive team, she is involved in many of the company's major decisions.

Skaggs also has been active at Portland State University's Food Industry Leadership Center, earning its Food Industry Leadership Award in 2006 for her commitment and contributions to the center.

Bellingham, Wash.-based Haggen operates 33 stores in Washington and Oregon under the Haggen Food & Pharmacy, TOP Food & Drug, and Larry's Market banners.