Dive Brief:
- Rutter’s Vice President of Operations Jere Matthews retired last month after more than 47 years with the company, the Pennsylvania-based retailer announced on Dec. 30.
- With Matthews’ departure, Rutter’s has promoted Desiree Dennis, former director of training, to senior director of operations, a role in which she will oversee the entire operations team, according to the announcement.
- The move comes as Rutters continues a multistate growth effort, including opening its first Virginia location in 2025 and an eventual expansion to Delaware.
Dive Insight:
Matthews began working at Rutter’s in 1977 as a part-time store worker and spent nearly five decades working his way up through a series of operations and store development roles.
“Jere was a great leader of our operations team over many years,” said Scott Hartman, president and CEO of Rutter’s. “He never sought individual recognition, but he could always be counted on for his hard work and dedication, which endeared him to everyone at Rutter’s. We wish him well on his future endeavors, including travel and time with his family!”
Dennis will have a full plate in the new role, between Rutter’s expansion plans and continuing to roll out new formats. The food-focused retailer has been building larger, more experience-focused stores. Its 1747 stores include a sports bar.
Allen King was promoted to fill Dennis’s previous position.
