Stater Bros. Markets announced the promotion of Keith Thomas to the position of executive vice president of retail operations.

In this role, Thomas will report directly to Stater Bros. President Greg McNiff and will be responsible for overseeing the retail operations of all stores across the company’s chain. He will also reinforce Stater Bros.’ commitment to providing its valued customers with a best-in-class shopping experience through stellar in-store customer service.  Thomas will continue to serve as a member of the company’s executive management team, which evaluates and sets key strategies for the company.   

“Keith is a valuable member of our executive management team,” said Stater Bros. Chief Executive Officer Pete Van Helden.  “This promotion recognizes his outstanding leadership skills, and dedication to providing our customers with the best shopping experience in Southern California.”

Thomas brings more than 39 years of retail grocery experience to his new role.  He joined Stater Bros. in 1981 as courtesy clerk.  He steadily progressed through a range of retail store and supervision roles, holding the positions of store manager, retail grocery supervisor and retail district manager.  In 2009, Thomas was promoted to the position of regional vice president of retail operations, and in 2018 was promoted to the role of senior vice president of retail operations.  In 2019, he advanced to group senior vice president of retail operations, his most recent position.

Thomas holds a bachelor's degree in business from the University of Redlands and is also a graduate of the University of Southern California Food Industry Management Program.  He currently serves on the board of directors for the Western Association of Food Chains.