Stinker Stores, following the recent departure of its CEO Nate Brazier, has announced a series of company shakeups as it looks to “strengthen alignment, enhance execution and position the company for continued long-term growth,” the company noted in a statement provided to CStore Decisions.
Going forward, owner Nancy Jones will take over as CEO and will be working with a new, strengthened leadership team.
As part of the transition, Randy Strain will take over as chief operating officer (COO), Ryan Forsgren as chief financial officer (CFO), Cory Mooney as chief technology officer (CTO) and Lesley Segadelli as chief experience officer (CXO).
Notably, second-generation family member Charley Jones will take over the vice president of operations role, where he will “continue developing his leadership capabilities while supporting the company’s operational strategy,” the statement continued.
“Charley joined the business earlier this year following his service in the United States Army Special Forces, bringing with him a strong foundation of discipline, leadership and commitment to excellence,” the company wrote. “As a member of the Jones family, his transition into the organization represents an important step in continuing the company’s legacy as a family-owned and future-focused business.”
In addition to its executive appointments, Stinker also made a series of operational and commercial leadership updates including naming Ken Rash as vice president of merchandising; Dan Fulkerson as vice president of fuel; Aaron Wood as director of facilities; Jennifer Cooperwood as director of operations; Emily Longmire as director of food service; Felicia Pacheco as director of people; and Steve Cook as director of marketing.
“As we look to the future, we are taking a thoughtful and deliberate approach to what comes next,” said Nancy Jones in an internal communication to the Stinker Stores team that was shared with CStore Decisions. “Our focus remains unchanged — continuing to serve our guests, supporting one another and continuing to build on the strong 90-year foundation that has been created.”
Brazier announced he would be stepping down as CEO last week to to “focus on (his) family and reflect on what’s next,” he wrote in a LinkedIn post.
“Leading this organization has been one of the greatest privileges of my professional career. Over the past six years, I’ve had the opportunity to work alongside an exceptional team of people who care deeply about our guests, our communities and each other,” the post read. “Together we strengthened operations, expanded our footprint, built an outstanding leadership team and continued building on a remarkable legacy.”
Brazier noted that his crowning achievement from the past six years has been supporting and building the company’s culture to the point where it is now, grounded in “collaboration, accountability, innovation and a shared commitment to doing the right thing.”
“Great businesses are built by great people, and I’ve been fortunate to work with many of the best,” he continued. “I’m deeply grateful for every team member, partner, mentor and friend who has been part of this journey. Thank you for your energy, support and the countless lessons along the way.”
Stinker Stores noted that Brazier has been “instrumental” in its development as a company.
