Who is Rodney McMullen?
Rodney McMullen was the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Kroger, the third-largest general retailer in the United States, from January 1, 2014, until early 2025. McMullen, who worked his way up from an entry-level position, was crucial in expanding Kroger’s market dominance. However, his career took a sharp turn in March 2025 when he resigned abruptly after an investigation found his conduct did not align with Kroger’s business ethics.
Rodney McMullen’s Age and Early Life
Rodney McMullen was born on July 16, 1961, in Pineville, Kentucky, on his family-owned farm. As of 2024, he is 63 years old. He was the first in his family to receive a college education, earning both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in accounting from the University of Kentucky. His early years were marked by a strong work ethic, which later propelled him to corporate success.
How Did Rodney McMullen Become CEO of Kroger?
In 1978, while still a university student, McMullen began working part-time as a stock clerk at his local Kroger grocery store, performing tasks such as price tagging, bagging groceries, receiving products, and running the register. In 1982, he moved to Charlotte and soon became a financial analyst at Kroger’s corporate headquarters. By the age of 34, he had risen to the position of Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and played a key role in Kroger’s merger with Fred Meyer, Inc. in 1999.
In 2003, McMullen became Vice Chairman, and in 2009, he was promoted to Chief Operating Officer (COO). Finally, on January 1, 2014, he was named CEO, succeeding David Dillon. During his tenure, Kroger expanded its digital and e-commerce presence, making significant strides in sustainability and grocery innovation.
Rodney McMullen Resigns: The Investigation and Aftermath
Rodney McMullen resigned as Kroger’s CEO in early 2025 after a board investigation found that his conduct was inconsistent with the grocer’s “policy on business ethics.” While the exact nature of the investigation remains undisclosed, his sudden resignation sparked widespread discussions within corporate circles and online platforms like Reddit.
Rodney McMullen’s Net Worth and Salary
Rodney McMullen amassed significant wealth during his tenure at Kroger. As of 2024, his estimated net worth is around $100 million. His salary saw significant increases throughout the years:
- 2018: $12 million
- 2019: $20.1 million (a 21% jump due to stock awards)
- 2020: $20.58 million (including bonuses and stock options)
- 2021: Base salary of $1.34 million, total compensation of $18 million (5,348% of the median Kroger employee’s salary of $24,000)
- 2022: Total compensation of $19 million, with a 671-to-1 pay ratio compared to the median Kroger worker
- 2023: Total compensation of $15.7 million, or 502 times the median Kroger employee’s earnings
McMullen’s high earnings frequently drew criticism, particularly regarding the significant wage gap between executives and frontline workers.
Rodney McMullen and Politics: His Political Party and Connection to Trump
Rodney McMullen’s political affiliations have been a topic of debate. While he has not publicly declared strong ties to a specific party, he has made political donations to both Republican and Democratic candidates over the years. Speculation arose regarding his relationship with President Donald Trump, as McMullen reportedly attended business roundtables organized by the Trump administration. He was also present at discussions on corporate policies and taxation reforms. However, he has never openly endorsed Trump or any other major political figure.
Rodney McMullen’s Wife and Personal Life
Rodney McMullen is married to Kathryn King McMullen, whom he met while they were both students at the University of Kentucky. The couple has maintained a relatively private life despite McMullen’s high-profile career. They are known for their philanthropic efforts, particularly in education and community development.
Rodney McMullen on Reddit: Public Reaction to His Resignation
McMullen’s resignation has been a hot topic on Reddit, especially in forums related to business, corporate ethics, and grocery store workers. Many users have expressed concerns about executive accountability, while others speculate on the nature of the investigation that led to his departure. His tenure at Kroger has received mixed reviews, with some praising his leadership and others criticizing his handling of labor disputes and corporate policies.
Rodney McMullen’s Role at Cincinnati Financial
Apart from his tenure at Kroger, McMullen has also served as a non-executive director of Cincinnati Financial, a role he held while leading Kroger.
What’s Next for Rodney McMullen?
With his resignation from Kroger, McMullen’s future remains uncertain. Industry experts speculate that he might take on advisory roles or invest in other business ventures. However, given the controversy surrounding his departure, he may also choose to maintain a low profile for the foreseeable future.
Conclusion
Rodney McMullen’s journey from a part-time employee to CEO of one of America’s largest grocery chains is remarkable. However, his sudden resignation following an investigation into his conduct has left many questions unanswered. As discussions about corporate leadership and accountability continue, McMullen’s legacy at Kroger remains a subject of debate.
