Longo's names Deborah Craven president

Longo’s has appointed Deborah Craven as its new president as chief executive Anthony Longo shifts focus.

Craven – the first woman to be tapped for the role at the grocer – will be responsible for leading the company's day-to-day business and ongoing growth strategy, while overseeing its almost 6,000 employees across  37 locations. 

READ: 2021 Star Women in Grocery winner Deb Craven (Q&A)

“I am thrilled by the opportunity to lead Longo’s – delivering on our growth strategy, creating value for Guests and continuing to nurture a culture for our team members that makes Longo’s one of the best and most rewarding places to work,” Craven said in a statement. “Longo's is at the forefront of the grocery industry, leading by example across sustainability, environmental stewardship, commitment to local, and placing people at the forefront of it all. I have a great sense of humility to be in a position to build on this important legacy.” 

After joining Longo’s in 2019 as chief financial officer, Craven later became chief operating officer. Prior to that, she held roles at Nike Canada, Purolator Inc., Mark’s, Sport Chek and more, Deb brings a wealth of expertise to her new role. 

Anthony has been the president and CEO of Longo’s for over 25 years. He will continue to serve as CEO and executive chairman of the board, shifting focus towards developing the company's long-term  strategy, growth, and real estate, while still providing strategic guidance and oversight. 

Mike Longo, who has served as the chief merchandising officer since 2020,  has been appointed to the role of COO. 

In his new role, Mike continues to be responsible for the merchandising department, and will take on responsibility to lead the company's day-to-day operations. 

Longo’s will be opening its 38th location this summer in Brooklin, Ont. 

“One of the main reasons for this change is to create a structure that will drive results and help us continue to fuel happier and healthier lives. We have always been focused on developing our leadership talent and succession planning so that we have the right people in the right roles to ensure long-term success. Deb is the right leader to build on the strong leadership of Longo’s. She embodies the Longo’s culture and will pioneer the organization into the next phase of our growth with a clear strategic vision and focus on executional excellence,” Anthony Longo said in a statement.