Meijer Promotes Symancyk To COO

Meijer Inc. has appointed J.K. Symancyk to the newly created role of chief operating officer and hired Peter Whitsett to succeed Symancyk as executive vice president of merchandising and marketing. “As we position our company for continued growth, it’s essential that we have the proper structure and talent,” said Hank Meijer, co-chairman and CEO of the Grand Rapids, Mich.-based retailer. “This evolution of our leadership team under [company president] Mark Murray will help ensure our company’s ongoing success in a very competitive industry.” Symancyk will report directly to Murray and will have three direct reports: Janet Emerson, EVP of