Hy-Vee COO to take helm

WEST DES MOINES, Iowa — After announcing the retirement of its leader last December, Hy-Vee has named a new chairman and CEO.

The retailer said its president and COO, Randy Edeker, will become chairman, president and CEO, effective June 1. Edeker, 30-year veteran of Hy-Vee, replaces Ric Jurgens, who has served as Hy-Vee CEO since 2003 and chairman since 2006. Back in December 2011, Jurgens announced his intention to retire and nominate Edeker as his successor.

With his election as chairman and CEO, Edeker becomes only the fourth company officer to hold those titles since Hy-Vee's founding in 1930.

"I have been truly blessed to be allowed to assume this role, leading the most incredible group of dedicated, hard-working people," Edeker said. "I am both honored and humbled to follow in the footsteps of Hy-Vee's great leaders, including the man who has caringly mentored me for the past eight years, Ric Jurgens. We will remain diligent in upholding the core values our founders set forth for us and delivering great service, great value and a helpful smile."

Added Jurgens, "It has been my privilege to serve Hy-Vee and our customers for over 43 years," he said. "I'm eternally grateful for the support and guidance given to me by our employees throughout our eight-state area. Since I've given my entire working life to Hy-Vee, the future of our company is very important to me. I retire with great confidence knowing that we have a strong, talented leader in Randy Edeker, and knowing he is surrounded by an outstanding team of executives at every level who will make Hy-Vee even better in the years to come."