US grocery operator Kroger has appointed Jeffrey Burt as group vice president of perishables merchandising and procurement.

Burt has been vice president of deli/bakery merchandising and procurement for the company since 2004. Prior to that Burt held leadership roles at QFC, Kroger’s Seattle divisions and began his career as a management trainee.

“Jeff is an excellent merchandiser, with a deep understanding of our customers’ preferences in the perishable departments,” said Kroger president and chief operating officer Rodney McMullen.