Wakefern Food Executive and Leadership Team

Neil Falcone, the Head Division Chief Financial Officer, Financial Services Department & Pricerite at Wakefern Food, manages the financial health and strategic fiscal planning for the cooperative and its associated divisions. Falcone oversees all financial services, ensuring robust accounting practices, treasury management, and capital allocation that support Wakeferns unique cooperative structure and its member companies. This critical position involves developing financial models that enable independent grocers to thrive against larger competitors, while also guiding the financial direction of specific retail banners like Pricerite. By meticulously analyzing market trends and operational expenditures, Neil Falcone drives financial efficiency and profitability across the organization. The Head Division Chief Financial Officer, Financial Services Department & Pricerite also plays a key part in securing funding and managing investments that fuel growth and innovation for the cooperative and its members.

Leonard Sitar, the President, ShopRite of Carteret at Wakefern Food, leads the strategic direction and operational execution for the ShopRite of Carteret banner. Sitar directs all aspects of store management, customer service, and local market engagement, ensuring alignment with Wakeferns overarching cooperative principles and retail standards. This executive role is fundamental to translating the companys support services into exceptional in-store experiences for shoppers. By focusing on operational excellence and community integration, Leonard Sitar drives the success of the Carteret location, reinforcing the brand's commitment to local service. The President, ShopRite of Carteret also oversees inventory management, staff development, and sales performance, contributing directly to the vitality of the cooperative network. Sitar's leadership ensures the banner's continued growth and customer satisfaction.

John Jantson, the Chief Information Officer at Wakefern Food, directs the companys technology strategy and digital infrastructure. Overseeing all IT operations, Jantson ensures the seamless integration of advanced technological solutions that support Wakeferns cooperative model and enhance member services. This leadership role involves architecting scalable systems for procurement, logistics, and retail operations, directly impacting the efficiency and competitiveness of independently owned supermarkets. By driving innovation in data analytics and cybersecurity, John Jantson safeguards sensitive information and optimizes business intelligence for member companies. The Chief Information Officer also champions the adoption of new technologies that improve customer experience and operational workflows across the Wakefern network, ensuring the cooperative remains at the forefront of industry advancements.

Darren Caudill, the Chief Sales Officer at Wakefern Food, spearheads all sales initiatives and revenue generation strategies across the companys diverse retail and wholesale operations. Caudill directs the development and execution of sales plans that empower member companies to maximize their market presence and customer engagement. This role is pivotal in translating Wakeferns cooperative advantages into tangible sales growth for independently owned supermarkets. By fostering strong relationships with member retailers and understanding evolving consumer demands, Darren Caudill ensures that sales strategies align with the companys mission to support local businesses. The Chief Sales Officer also oversees market analysis and competitive positioning, driving initiatives that enhance brand visibility and customer loyalty across various retail banners. Caudill's leadership ensures sustained sales performance and market penetration.

Karen Meleta, the Chief Communications Officer (Cco) at Wakefern Food, directs all internal and external communication strategies, safeguarding the companys reputation and enhancing stakeholder engagement. Meleta oversees the development and dissemination of key messages that articulate Wakeferns cooperative mission, operational successes, and commitment to community. This leadership function is crucial for maintaining strong relationships with member companies, suppliers, the media, and the public. By crafting compelling narratives, Karen Meleta ensures that the unique value proposition of Wakefern Food is clearly communicated, reinforcing its position as a leader in the grocery industry. The Chief Communications Officer (Cco) also manages crisis communications and public relations efforts, ensuring consistent and transparent messaging. Meleta's strategic oversight strengthens brand perception and fosters trust across all audiences.