Raley's Announces Leadership Changes as Chelsea Carbahal Departs

Carol Barsotti promoted to Chief Communications Officer as Carbahal launches new consulting firm

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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Chelsea Carbahal, a 10-year veteran of The Raley's Companies, is transitioning to an advisory role and launching her own strategic consulting firm, CMC Strategies, with Raley's as its inaugural client. Meanwhile, Carol Barsotti has been appointed as the new Chief Communications Officer, overseeing public relations, government affairs, and community impact for the company.

Why it matters

Carbahal played a pivotal role in guiding Raley's through a period of significant transformation, including acquisitions, divestitures, and the challenges of the pandemic. Her departure represents a changing of the guard, but the company has a succession plan in place and is promoting from within with Barsotti's appointment to the executive leadership team.

The details

Carbahal joined Raley's in 2015 and quickly became an integral part of the executive team, helping to shape the company's growth strategy and communications during a time of major change. She also served as the Executive Director of Raley's charitable foundation, Food For Families, expanding its reach and impact. Barsotti, who is also the President of fieldTRUE, the company's farm-box subscription business, will now take on the expanded role of Chief Communications Officer.

  • Carbahal joined Raley's in 2015.
  • In 2020, Carbahal's role expanded to The Raley's Companies.
  • In July 2025, Carbahal and her husband welcomed twins.
  • Effective January 16, 2026, Carbahal will launch her own strategic advisory firm, CMC Strategies, with Raley's as its inaugural client.

The players

Chelsea Carbahal

A 10-year veteran of The Raley's Companies who is transitioning to an advisory role and launching her own strategic consulting firm, CMC Strategies, with Raley's as its inaugural client.

Carol Barsotti

The newly appointed Chief Communications Officer of The Raley's Companies, responsible for overseeing public relations, government affairs, and community impact. Barsotti is also the President of fieldTRUE, the company's farm-box subscription business.

Keith Knopf

The President and CEO of The Raley's Companies.

Mike Teel

The Owner and Chairman of The Raley's Companies.

Julie Teel

The President of the Raley's Food For Families Board of Directors.

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What they’re saying

“Chelsea's impact, both internally and externally, has been substantial. Her insight, expertise, and steady guidance helped drive meaningful progress for the communities we serve.”

— Mike Teel, Owner and Chairman, The Raley's Companies (contracostaherald.com)

“Chelsea has been an important and transformative leader for The Raley's Companies. Her impact on our team, our brand, and our leaders is indelible. While we will miss working with Chelsea day-to-day, we look forward to continuing our partnership through CMC Strategies.”

— Keith Knopf, President and CEO, The Raley's Companies (contracostaherald.com)

“Having such an accomplished leader assume these critical responsibilities positions us well for what's ahead. As we continue our purpose‑driven transformation, I look forward to working closely with Carol to drive our mission of changing the way the world eats, one plate at a time.”

— Mike Teel, Owner and Chairman, The Raley's Companies (contracostaherald.com)

What’s next

The Raley's Companies will be announcing the incumbent executive leader who will assume Carbahal's former responsibilities.

The takeaway

The leadership changes at The Raley's Companies highlight the company's commitment to internal talent development and succession planning, as well as its focus on purpose-driven transformation and community impact under the guidance of experienced executives like Carol Barsotti.