Kroger Strengthens Board with Fresh Supply Chain and Consumer Goods Expertise

Kroger’s board of directors just got a major upgrade. The company has tapped Kevin Brown from Dell Technologies and Amanda Sourry—formerly leading Unilever’s North America operations—to join its board. Meanwhile, longtime board member Bobby Shackouls is stepping down after more than two decades of service, including five years as lead independent director.

Who Are the New Voices at Kroger’s Board Table?

Kevin Brown’s Supply Chain Pedigree

Brown isn’t your typical tech exec dabbling in retail. As executive vice president of global operations and chief supply chain officer at Dell Technologies, he’s spent 20 years cutting teeth on procurement and supply chain strategy. His expertise spans both operational excellence and sustainability—areas increasingly critical for grocery chains managing complex logistics and environmental commitments.

His credentials go beyond the corporate ladder: he sits on the National Committee of the Council on Foreign Relations and serves on the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation’s board. Brown holds a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from UMass Amherst and an M.S. in Engineering Management from George Washington University.

Amanda Sourry’s Consumer Packaged Goods Mastery

Sourry brings a different but equally valuable toolkit. She led Unilever’s North America division until retiring in December 2019, after spending over 30 years climbing the ranks in consumer goods. Her portfolio at Unilever included global foods, international hair care, and the UK/Ireland business—meaning she’s navigated multiple continents and product categories.

What really matters for Kroger: Sourry spearheaded Unilever’s digital transformation, a skill set increasingly essential as grocery retail reshapes around e-commerce and omnichannel experiences. She holds an M.A. from Cambridge University and currently sits on the board of PVH Corp.

What This Means for Kroger

CEO Rodney McMullen framed it clearly: Brown’s deep expertise in global supply chains, procurement, and sustainability “will benefit our business and shareholders.” Sourry’s marketing chops and digital-first mindset address consumer packaged goods strategy—core to Kroger’s competitive advantage.

The departure of Shackouls after 21+ years marks the end of an era, but the board of directors has carefully calibrated its next chapter toward supply chain resilience and digital transformation.

Both Brown and Sourry were elected to serve through Kroger’s June 2021 annual shareholder meeting, when shareholders will formally vote on their continued board of directors positions.

About Kroger: The Cincinnati-based Kroger Co. operates nearly half a million associates serving 11+ million customers daily across its family of banners. The company is pursuing its “Zero Hunger Zero Waste” initiative targeting 2025.