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 operations, including accounting, budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting, ensuring compliance and fiscal responsibility across the organization. The Head Division Chief Financial Officer, Financial Services Department & Pricerite also directs financial services and pricing strategies for the Pricerite banner, optimizing profitability and market competitiveness. This leadership role involves analyzing financial performance, identifying cost-saving opportunities, and guiding investment decisions to support Wakefern's growth objectives. Falcone's expertise is crucial in navigating the complex financial landscape of the retail grocery industry, particularly within the cooperative structure. Neil Falcone ensures robust financial management, supporting the independent grocers' success and the overall stability of Wakefern Food.

Leonard Sitar, the President, ShopRite of Carteret at Wakefern Food, leads the strategic direction and operational execution for the ShopRite of Carteret retail location. Sitar oversees all aspects of store management, including customer service, inventory control, staff development, and local marketing initiatives, ensuring the store meets high standards of performance and community engagement. This executive role focuses on driving sales, optimizing operational efficiency, and enhancing the shopping experience for customers within the Carteret market. The President, ShopRite of Carteret works to align store-level activities with Wakefern's broader cooperative objectives, contributing to the overall success of the organization. Sitar's leadership is critical in maintaining the local identity and competitive edge of independently owned supermarkets within the Wakefern network. Leonard Sitar ensures the ShopRite of Carteret operates as a successful, community-focused grocery destination.

John Jantson, the Chief Information Officer at Wakefern Food, directs the companys technology strategy and infrastructure. Jantson oversees the development and implementation of all IT systems, ensuring they support the cooperative's operational needs and strategic goals. This involves managing cybersecurity initiatives, data analytics platforms, and digital transformation projects critical for maintaining a competitive edge in the retail grocery sector. The Chief Information Officer ensures seamless integration of technology across member stores, enhancing efficiency and customer experience. Jantson's leadership focuses on leveraging innovation to support Wakefern's unique cooperative model, enabling independent grocers to access advanced technological solutions. The Chief Information Officer drives the digital roadmap, aligning technology investments with the companys mission to provide comprehensive support services to its retail partners. John Jantson's role is pivotal in modernizing operations and securing the companys digital future.

Darren Caudill, the Chief Sales Officer at Wakefern Food, drives the companys sales strategies and revenue growth initiatives across its diverse retail and wholesale operations. Caudill oversees all sales departments, focusing on maximizing market share and enhancing the value proposition for member companies and their customers. This role involves developing and executing sales plans that align with Wakefern's cooperative model, ensuring independent grocers receive the support needed to thrive. The Chief Sales Officer works closely with marketing and operations teams to create integrated strategies that boost sales performance and customer loyalty. Caudill's leadership emphasizes building strong relationships with member retailers and understanding evolving consumer demands in the grocery sector. Darren Caudill is instrumental in expanding Wakefern's reach and reinforcing its position as a leading force in the supermarket industry through effective sales leadership.

Karen Meleta, the Chief Communications Officer (Cco) at Wakefern Food, directs all internal and external communication strategies for the cooperative. Meleta is responsible for shaping the companys public image, managing media relations, and ensuring clear, consistent messaging across all platforms. This leadership position involves overseeing corporate communications, public relations, social media engagement, and community outreach programs that support Wakefern's mission and its member retailers. The Chief Communications Officer (Cco) plays a vital role in articulating the value of Wakefern's cooperative model to stakeholders, including employees, member grocers, and the public. Meleta's efforts focus on building brand reputation and fostering strong relationships within the communities served by Wakefern's independent supermarkets. Karen Meleta ensures that the companys narrative effectively highlights its commitment to its members and the grocery industry.