QUINCY, MASS. – After working in a leadership capacity with the company for 36 years, Ira Kress has been appointed president of Giant Food, according to parent company, Ahold Delhaize USA. Kress transitions to the role after serving as interim president with Giant Food for the past year.

“He is an excellent leader with a strong focus on serving customers, engaging associates and supporting local communities,” said Kevin Holt, president of Ahold Delhaize USA. “During his role as interim president, Ira has continued to successfully grow sales, market share and build strong associate engagement during an unprecedented time for our industry.

“Ira has been a dedicated leader for Giant Food for 36 years and we are proud to appoint him to this role.

Kress added, “It’s been an honor and privilege to lead Giant Food, especially during this time when our customers and communities have never needed us more. I’m honored to continue in the role and am incredibly appreciative of our associates who serve our customers with excellence every day. I look forward to continuing to grow the Giant Food brand in our communities.”

Starting his retail career in store operations management, Kress also worked in leadership roles that included human resources, employee training and labor relations. He serves on the board of the Johns Hopkins Pediatric Oncology Advisory Council and serves as a board member with the Ahold Delhaize USA Family Foundation.