CINCINNATI, Oct. 14, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR) today named Alex Tosolini to serve in the newly-created role of senior vice president of new business development, effective November 3.

In this position, Mr. Tosolini will lead a strategic process to identify, evaluate and develop new opportunities that capitalize on Kroger's powerful assets and contribute to the company's continued growth and financial performance. He will report to the CEO.

"Alex's unique skills and insights, ranging from strategic planning to brand management to general management, will enhance our efforts to accelerate Kroger's growth," said Rodney McMullen, Kroger's chief executive officer. "Alex will be an outstanding addition to our leadership team."

Mr. Tosolini has 24 years of experience as a global business executive for Procter & Gamble Co., most recently serving as senior vice president of Global eBusiness and vice president of Global eCommerce. He has held numerous leadership positions for P&G throughout his career, in the U.S. and internationally, and has managed the development of innovative products and services in many lines of business.

Born and raised in Italy, Mr. Tosolini earned a degree in Business Administration at Bocconi University in Milan before beginning his career with P&G in the United Kingdom in 1990. He lives in Cincinnati with his wife and two children.

Kroger, one of the world's largest retailers, employs more than 375,000 associates who serve customers in 2,638 supermarkets and multi-department stores in 34 states and the District of Columbia under two dozen local banner names including Kroger, City Market, Dillons, Food 4 Less, Fred Meyer, Fry's, Harris Teeter, Jay C, King Soopers, QFC, Ralphs and Smith's. The company also operates 785 convenience stores, 324 fine jewelry stores, 1,275 supermarket fuel centers and 37 food processing plants in the U.S. Recognized by Forbes as the most generous company in America, Kroger supports hunger relief, breast cancer awareness, the military and their families, and more than 30,000 schools and grassroots organizations. Kroger contributes food and funds equal to 200 million meals a year through more than 100 Feeding America food bank partners. A leader in supplier diversity, Kroger is a proud member of the Billion Dollar Roundtable and the U.S. Hispanic Chamber's Million Dollar Club.

SOURCE The Kroger Co.