Fleeman Named New Ahold Delhaize USA CEO

There will be a change at the top of Ahold Delhaize USA as JJ Fleeman has been nominated to the position of CEO, following the announcement that current CEO Kevin Holt plans to retire.

Fleeman will be officially nominated as CEO and a member of the company’s Management Board at the Ahold’s Annual General Meeting in April of 2023. His appointment is subject to shareholder approval. Holt will remain with Ahold Delhaize USA in an advisory capacity until he retires at the end of 2023.

“JJ is an inspiring leader who will advance the U.S. businesses through omni-channel market share growth and who will continue to deliver on the Connected Customer strategy that Kevin has so carefully developed and implemented with the team over the past few years,” said Peter Agnefjäll, chair of the Supervisory Board of Ahold Delhaize. “It is a testament to Kevin’s leadership that we were able to select his successor from our own ranks.”

Fleeman has served as president, Peapod Digital Labs and chief commercial and digital officer of Ahold Delhaize USA since May 2018. Through Peapod Digital Labs, he is responsible for enabling the local brands of Ahold Delhaize USA to deliver an unparalleled omni-channel grocery experience, the company said.

“I’m incredibly grateful for this opportunity to serve as CEO of Ahold Delhaize USA and work alongside our associates who are passionate about serving their customers and communities each and every day,” said Fleeman. “The U.S. businesses are very strong, with the local brands holding leading market positions where each of these companies operate. We are a proud part of the communities we serve, providing access to affordable, healthy and sustainable food to millions of customers every day.”