Food solutions company SpartanNash has made a significant hire by appointing Djouma Barry as Senior Vice President and Chief Retail Officer. Barry will replace Thomas Swanson, the current Executive Vice President of Corporate Retail, who is planning to transition into a consulting role by the end of the year. This move highlights SpartanNash’s commitment to enhancing its retail strategy and operations as it expands its footprint in the grocery sector.
Barry’s impressive resume includes his most recent position as Vice President of Retail Operations at The Kroger Co. His career began at Target, where he climbed the ranks from store floor leader to an executive overseeing nearly 1,900 stores generating $93 billion in sales across the United States. Apart from his time at Target, Barry has also held notable positions, including Vice President, Head of Strategy and Operations at Old Navy and Vice President of Retail Operations and Planning at Lululemon. This diverse background equips him with a wealth of knowledge and expertise that he will now bring to SpartanNash.
Tony Sarsam, CEO of SpartanNash, expressed enthusiasm about Barry’s hiring, emphasizing that his journey from the sales floor to the executive suite serves as an inspiration for over 12,000 retail associates. Sarsam believes that Barry will be instrumental in cultivating a “People First” culture while improving the store guest experience across the company’s growing retail network.
Barry is not just a seasoned executive; he is also a passionate advocate for inclusion and diversity. He is a member of the Executive Leadership Council, an organization dedicated to increasing the number of Black executives in leadership positions globally. This focus on representation will likely resonate with SpartanNash’s mission to create an inclusive environment for all its employees.
As Barry transitions into his new role, he will oversee SpartanNash’s retail strategy and operations, playing a crucial part in guiding the company’s 147 grocery stores, such as Family Fare, Martin’s Super Markets, and D&W Fresh Market. Additionally, SpartanNash operates numerous pharmacies and fuel centers, demonstrating its multifaceted approach to retail.
With a workforce of around 17,000 associates, SpartanNash stands at a pivotal moment. As one of the top food and consumables retailers in North America — ranked No. 45 on Progressive Grocer’s 2024 list — the company is also recognized as one of the 10 Most Sustainable Grocers. This sustainability recognition is increasingly important in today’s market, where consumers are more eco-conscious and demand responsible business practices.
The global supply chain network operated by SpartanNash supports a range of wholesale customers, from independent and chain grocers to e-commerce platforms and U.S. military commissaries. The recent hire of Barry aligns with the company’s goal to bolster its e-commerce capabilities and adapt to the changing landscape of grocery retailing. Consumers are increasingly shifting towards online grocery shopping, a trend that is expected to continue.
The timing of Barry’s appointment is crucial as the grocery sector faces various challenges, including rising operational costs, supply chain disruptions, and evolving consumer preferences. Market analysis suggests that companies that adapt quickly to these changes will lead the pack, making Barry’s experience particularly relevant now.
Barry’s relocation from Atlanta to Grand Rapids, Michigan, also serves as a reminder of SpartanNash’s strategic plans for growth in the Midwest. The company is poised to harness Barry’s leadership capabilities to navigate through these challenges. His proven track record at major retail players like Kroger and Target will likely prove invaluable in reinforcing SpartanNash’s place in the grocery sector.
In summary, Djouma Barry’s wealth of experience, dedication to diversity, and commitment to enhancing customer experience make him an excellent fit for SpartanNash as it seeks to strengthen its retail operations. His leadership is anticipated to drive significant advancements in SpartanNash’s operational strategy and retail footprint.
