Kroger’s Tuffin announces retirement

In this new role, Kimball will oversee several retail divisions across the organization, including during the interim, as well as continue to oversee the responsibility of Smith’s division. 

Kimball joined the organization in 1984 as a courtesy clerk in the Smith’s division and has had several leadership roles in the years that followed. Most notably, he served as senior vice president of sales and merchandising in 2009, vice president of merchandising for the Ralphs division in 2012 and vice president of operations at Ralphs in 2013. 

“Kenny is truly an inspirational leader that effectively balances a passion for people and a passion for results with tremendous experience across our organization, ranging from courtesy clerk to division president,” Rodney McMullen, Kroger chairman and CEO said. “He is driven, passionate and respected for his ability to see the big picture while also putting his associates and customers first. We're excited to bring his perspective and experience to our senior leadership team.”

[Read More: Kroger’s McKinney retiring, Jabbar named next SVP of retail divisions]

Tuffin began his career in the grocery industry at Smitty’s in Arizona where he held various positions before joining Smith’s in 1996. Since joining the company, he has been named vice president of transition and president of Smith’s before taking over as senior vice president of retail divisions. 

“Mark is a tremendous leader whose passion for our customers and our people will leave a lasting legacy across the many divisions he has led,” McMullen said. “We thank Mark for his dedication throughout the years and wish him all the best in retirement.”