Kroger Announces Retirement of Tim Massa After Distinguished Career in Human Resources

CINCINNATI, Ohio — The Kroger Co. has officially announced the retirement of Tim Massa, Executive Vice President and Chief Associate Experience Officer, marking the end of an influential chapter in the company's leadership history. Massa is scheduled to retire on September 18, 2026, following 16 years of service at Kroger and more than three decades of experience in the human resources field.

A Respected Leader Leaves a Lasting Legacy

Tim Massa joined Kroger in 2010 after spending 21 years in a variety of leadership positions at Procter & Gamble. He began his journey at Kroger as Vice President of Talent Development and steadily advanced through several senior leadership roles, including Group Vice President of Human Resources and Labor Relations, Chief People Officer, Senior Vice President, and ultimately Executive Vice President and Chief Associate Experience Officer.

Throughout his tenure, Massa played a critical role in shaping Kroger’s people-focused culture. As the company’s top human resources executive, he led strategies involving talent management, leadership development, employee well-being, labor relations, compensation programs, and workplace culture. His leadership helped establish Kroger as one of the most respected employers in the retail industry.

Driving a People-First Culture at Kroger

One of Massa’s most significant contributions was helping develop Kroger’s “business-led, people-enabled” approach to leadership and talent management. This philosophy emphasized the importance of investing in employees while supporting business growth and innovation.

Under his guidance, Kroger strengthened its workforce development programs and created opportunities for employees to advance their careers within the organization. His commitment to empowering associates earned him widespread respect among employees, executives, and industry leaders alike.

The New Beginnings Program

Massa was also recognized as one of the architects behind Kroger’s New Beginnings program. The initiative was designed to help hourly associates build meaningful careers and improve their lives through education, development opportunities, and long-term career pathways.

The program reflected Massa’s belief that talent exists everywhere and that companies have a responsibility to help people unlock their full potential. The initiative became a cornerstone of Kroger’s associate development strategy and continues to impact employees across the company.

Leadership During Challenging Times

During his years at Kroger, Massa guided the company through several critical moments, including economic shifts, workforce transformations, and the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic.

His leadership was particularly important during the pandemic, when Kroger worked to protect employees, maintain business operations, and continue serving customers across the United States. Industry observers credit Massa with helping create policies and support systems that prioritized employee safety and well-being during uncertain times.

His efforts helped reinforce Kroger’s reputation as a company that values and supports its workforce even during periods of crisis.

Executive Leadership Praises Massa’s Contributions

Kroger Chief Executive Officer Greg Foran praised Massa for his leadership and dedication to associates throughout his career.

According to Foran, Massa became a trusted and relatable leader who genuinely cared about Kroger employees. He noted that Massa built a strong people organization that supports and respects associates while helping the company grow and succeed.

In addition, Kroger Board Chairman Ron Sargent highlighted Massa’s ability to build a world-class human resources organization and develop future leaders within the company. Sargent credited Massa with helping Kroger navigate some of its most defining moments while quietly influencing a generation of leaders.

Recognition Across the Human Resources Industry

Massa’s influence extended beyond Kroger. Over the years, he became a respected voice in the human resources profession and participated in numerous leadership and governance organizations.

In 2024, he was named a Fellow of the National Academy of Human Resources, one of the industry's highest honors. He also serves on the Board of Directors of the CHRO Association and remains active in several leadership development and succession planning organizations.

His work in leadership development, employee engagement, culture transformation, and organizational effectiveness has earned recognition throughout the business community.

Looking Ahead to Retirement

In a personal statement shared following the announcement, Massa reflected on his 37-year career in human resources and expressed gratitude for the opportunities he experienced throughout his professional journey.

He thanked colleagues, mentors, friends, and family members who supported him over the years. Massa also expressed appreciation for the thousands of Kroger associates whose dedication helped shape his career and leadership philosophy.

Although retiring from Kroger, Massa indicated that he plans to remain active in leadership development through executive coaching, board service, and mentoring future business leaders. His future work will focus on values-based leadership, executive succession planning, and helping organizations build strong workplace cultures.

What Comes Next for Kroger?

Kroger has confirmed that Massa will remain in his role until September 18, 2026. The company stated that a successor will be announced at a later date as part of its leadership transition plans.

As one of America’s largest grocery retailers, Kroger continues to focus on employee engagement, customer service, and business growth. The transition presents an opportunity for the company to build upon the foundation that Massa helped create while preparing the next generation of leadership.

Conclusion

The retirement of Tim Massa marks the conclusion of a remarkable career dedicated to people, leadership, and organizational development. Over 16 years at Kroger and more than three decades in human resources, Massa helped transform the company’s approach to talent management, employee engagement, and workplace culture.

His contributions have left a lasting impact on Kroger’s workforce and leadership structure, ensuring that his influence will continue to be felt long after his retirement. As Kroger prepares for its next chapter, the company and its associates celebrate the legacy of a leader who consistently placed people at the center of business success.

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