Ralphs, a subsidiary of The Kroger Co., announced that Kendra Doyel has been promoted to vice president of merchandising for the company, effective Feb. 3. She will report to Mike Murphy, president of the Ralphs division. Doyel succeeds Victor Smith, who was recently promoted to president of Kroger's Delta division.

Doyel joined the company in 1998 as a pharmacist in the Fry's Division. She was named pharmacy coordinator in 2002 and promoted to director of public relations for the Fry's division in 2006. In 2008, she moved to the Ralphs and Food 4 Less divisions as the public affairs and government relations leader and was responsible for all internal and external communication in both divisions. In 2017, she was promoted to her current role, HR leader for both Ralphs and Food 4 Less.

"Already a valued asset to the Ralphs team, Kendra exemplifies the strategic vision, leadership and execution skills needed for the position," said Murphy.

"I am honored to be a part of such an incredible organization and team, as we work together to execute our Restock Kroger strategy and position Ralphs for continued success in the future," said Doyel.

Doyel currently serves as the chair of the board for the California Grocers Association and on the board of directors for the Network of Executive Women. She holds a bachelor's degree in pharmacy and psychology from the University of New Mexico.