Southern California grocery chain Gelson’s has appointed its president, John Bagan, to also serve as CEO, according to a Monday press release.
Bagan is replacing Rob McDougall, who became CEO of Gelson’s in 2014 and has retired after 15 years with the grocery company, according to the press release. Bagan was appointed last July to the role of president, which McDougall previously held.
During his time at the grocery chain, McDougall increased the company’s store count from 18 to 27 locations; put greater emphasis on fresh and organic foods; and introduced social areas to stores, such as wine bars, as well as Gelson’s-branded wine.
In his new role, Bagan will oversee the company’s growth strategy and manage relationships with Gelson’s board of directors and parent company, Pan Pacific International Holdings (PPIH).
This marks Bagan’s third promotion in two years. Bagan joined Gelson’s as chief merchandising officer in 2016, became its chief operating officer in May 2021 and was promoted to the president position last summer. Prior to Gelson's, he held high-level merchandising and supply chain roles at Guitar Center, Albertsons and Target, according to the announcement.
Along with Bagan’s promotion, Gelson’s has promoted Rich Gillmore to become vice president of center store and Sean Saenz to vice president of fresh foods.
The company also announced six title changes among its leadership ranks:
- Clare Bogle as chief financial and administrative officer.
- Ron Johnson as chief information and supply chain officer.
- Tom Frattali as senior vice president of group synergies.
- Paul Kneeland as SVP of merchandising and sales.
- Tim Mahoney as SVP of operations.
- Yvonne Manganaro as SVP of customer and team experience.
