Kroger has tapped a former Walmart senior merchandising executive to head its U.S. grocery operations, marking its first external hire for the role in several years.

The incoming leader spent over a decade at Walmart overseeing merchandising strategy, supply chain efficiencies and private-label growth, bringing deep expertise in cost management.

Kroger shares climbed following the announcement, signaling investor optimism that the new leadership will strengthen the company’s competitive positioning and boost operational performance.