Lidl U.S. announced Roman Heini as chairman, effective March 1. Heini, who joined Lidl last October, will relocate to the company’s Arlington, VA, headquarters to collaborate with the management team led by Lidl U.S. Chief Executive Officer Johannes Fieber. Together, the team will continue to focus on supporting and optimizing Lidl’s U.S. store operations, its Best Market integration in New York and New Jersey, and the grocer’s ongoing expansion into new markets along the East Coast.

The company said Heini’s appointment as chairman also reflects its commitment to the U.S. market and strengthens Lidl’s ability to support dynamic business development in the future. In taking responsibility for the U.S. business, Heini will build on the successful work of international board member Michael Aranda, who will assume new responsibilities on Lidl’s management board in Europe.

“Roman’s decision to relocate to our Arlington headquarters with this appointment underscores Lidl’s commitment to the U.S. and is a major step forward in positioning us for dynamic growth,” said Fieber. “I look forward to welcoming Roman to the U.S. and driving Lidl’s success together.”

“I am honored to have the opportunity to join the capable team at Lidl U.S. and to contribute to our expansion in the United States,” said Heini. “I look forward to working closely with the team as we continue to tackle the priority projects of our U.S. business.”