Geoffrey Covert named SVP retail operations at Kroger

CINCINNATI — Just two weeks after announcing the exit of its SVP retail operations, Kroger announced a replacement on Friday.

Geoffrey Covert, a seasoned Kroger executive, will become SVP retail operations, effective Jan. 1. He will be responsible for leading the company's programs and processes focused on operating efficiency, store productivity and associate and customer safety, Kroger said. Prior to this position, Covert served as president of the company's Cincinnati/Dayton division for the past six years.

The announcement came after the company confirmed the retirement of Paul Scutt, a 45-year Kroger veteran.