Raley’s Elevates Two Executives to Key Leadership Roles

The Raley’s Companies has promoted two accomplished leaders, Jessica Blakely and Faith Garrard, to senior roles overseeing sales and merchandising across the organization’s diverse banners.

These appointments reflect The Raley’s Companies’ commitment to operational excellence, customer-focused innovation and developing talent from within, according to a news release.

Blakely has been appointed as the senior leader of the sales and merchandising function for the Bashas’ division. In her new role, she will oversee all aspects of category management for fresh and center store, vendor relations, data and analytics, pricing, schematics and merchandising for Bashas’, Bashas’ Diné and Food City stores, the release says.

“Jessica’s strategic insights, deep understanding of our business and proven leadership make her exceptionally well-suited for this role,” says Keith Knopf, CEO for The Raley’s Companies. “Her appointment marks a significant step forward as we continue to strengthen our operations and deliver exceptional value to our customers in Arizona and New Mexico. In her new capacity, she will report directly to me.”

Blakely joined The Raley’s Companies in 2014 and has held roles of increasing responsibility within the sales, merchandising and marketing teams, the release says. Most recently, she served as vice president of marketing, where, under the leadership of Deirdre Zimmermann, she led the company’s marketing strategy and drove customer engagement through enhancements to the loyalty program, retail media, data analytics and CRM. Previously, Blakely led several large categories as well as all private label development.

“I’m honored to step into this new role and grateful for the opportunity to lead such a passionate and talented team,” Blakely says. “Bashas’ Family of Stores has a rich legacy of serving communities across Arizona, and I look forward to building on that foundation by enhancing the in-store experience, deepening our connection with customers and driving innovation in our merchandising strategy.”

Garrard has been promoted to vice president of sales and merchandising for Raley’s Operating Company. In this capacity, Garrard will lead sales and merchandising efforts focusing on innovation, operational excellence and delivering exceptional value to customers, the release says.

“Faith’s innovative approach, outstanding leadership and unwavering commitment to excellence have been instrumental to Raley’s ongoing success,” Knopf says. “Her dedication to elevating our fresh categories and building strong vendor partnerships has inspired teams across the organization and positioned us for continued growth. In her new capacity, Garrard will continue to report to Paul Gianetto, president of Raley’s Operating Division.”

Throughout her tenure, the company says Garrard has championed customer-centric strategies, built strong vendor partnerships and led high-performing teams with integrity and purpose. Her passion for transforming the way people experience food aligns perfectly with Raley’s mission of changing the way people eat, one plate at a time, the release says.

“I am incredibly grateful for this opportunity and for the support of such a dedicated team,” Garrard says. “Raley’s has a proud tradition of innovation and customer service, and I look forward to continuing to deliver outstanding experiences and value to our customers.”