Kroger Taps Air NZ's Greg Foran as New CEO After Ethics Breach

Foran, a former Walmart executive, will lead the supermarket giant through a period of cost-cutting and strategic shifts.

Published on Feb. 8, 2026

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After an 11-month search, Kroger has appointed Greg Foran, the former CEO of Air New Zealand, as its next chief executive officer. Foran, who previously held executive roles at Walmart, will take over from interim CEO Ron Sargent following an undisclosed ethics violation by previous CEO Rodney McMullen. Kroger has implemented austerity measures like job cuts and store closures to address inflationary pressures and shifting consumer behavior in the grocery industry.

Why it matters

Foran's appointment signals Kroger's desire for a fresh strategic direction, as the company seeks to navigate the challenges facing the grocery sector, including competition from online retailers and discount chains. His experience managing complex operations and prioritizing customer service could prove valuable as Kroger balances cost control with investments in technology and the customer experience.

The details

Foran, who previously served as CEO of Air New Zealand, is known for his focus on resilience and customer service. He emphasized the importance of a strong work ethic, customer focus, and values-based decision-making, qualities he plans to bring to Kroger. The grocery industry will be watching closely to see how Foran's leadership impacts Kroger's performance and strategic direction.

  • Foran's departure from Air New Zealand was announced in March 2023, with his official exit occurring in October 2023.
  • Kroger had been searching for a permanent CEO since the departure of Rodney McMullen, following an undisclosed ethics violation.

The players

Greg Foran

A former executive at Walmart and most recently the CEO of Air New Zealand, who has been appointed as Kroger's next chief executive officer.

Rodney McMullen

The previous CEO of Kroger, who departed following an undisclosed ethics violation.

Ron Sargent

The Chairman of Kroger, who served as the interim CEO after McMullen's departure.

Kroger

A major American supermarket chain that has implemented austerity measures, including job cuts and store closures, to address inflationary pressures and shifting consumer behavior in the grocery industry.

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What they’re saying

“Leading Air NZ was a great privilege. I'm incredibly proud of what our people achieved together through some of the most challenging years the airline – and the country – has faced.”

— Greg Foran

“It's one I will approach with a strong Kiwi work ethic, and with the benefit of lessons learned in NZ – staying close to customers and frontline teams, doing what's right and making values-based decisions with a long-term view.”

— Greg Foran

What’s next

Foran's leadership and strategic vision will be closely watched as he takes the helm at Kroger and navigates the challenges facing the grocery industry.

The takeaway

Kroger's appointment of an executive with experience in both the retail and airline industries, known for his focus on resilience and customer service, signals the company's desire for a fresh strategic direction as it seeks to address the evolving landscape of the American supermarket.