SAN BERNARDINO, CA - Stater Bros. Markets’ very own Keith Thomas is getting a promotion. The former Group Senior Vice President – Retail Operations will be taking on the position of Executive Vice President – Retail Operations, bringing his more than 39 years of retail grocery experience to his new leadership role.

In his new position, which reports to Stater Bros. President Greg McNiff, Thomas will oversee retail operations of all stores across the grocer’s chain while also continuing the company's mission of providing shoppers with a best-in-class shopping experience through stellar in-store customer service.

“Keith is a valuable member of our Executive Management Team,” said Stater Bros. CEO Pete Van Helden, noting that Thomas will continue to serve as a member of the Executive Management Team, which evaluates and sets key strategies. “This promotion recognizes his outstanding leadership skills and dedication to providing our customers with the best shopping experience in Southern California.”

Thomas first joined Stater Bros. in 1981 as a Courtesy Clerk. According to a press release, 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 before being promoted to Regional Vice President – Retail Operations in 2009 and Senior Vice President – Retail Operations in 2018.

Thomas holds a bachelor of science degree in Business from the University of Redlands and is also a graduate of the University of Southern California (USC) Food Industry Management Program. He currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Western Association of Food Chains (WAFC).

Congratulations to Keith Thomas on this exciting promotion!

Stater Bros. Markets