Sprouts Farmers Market, one of the fastest-growing retailers in the country, has announced that Shawn Gensch has joined the company as chief marketing officer, and Dan Sanders has joined the company as executive vice president of store operations. Gensch’s appointment was effective on Monday, June 29 and Sanders’ on Monday, July 6.
“Shawn and Dan share deep retail leadership experience, and with their marketing and operations expertise, Sprouts will continue to grow as a healthy grocery store offering fresh, natural and organic foods at great prices,” said Doug Sanders, president and chief executive officer of Sprouts.
In his role as chief marketing officer, Shawn will serve as a member of the Sprouts Executive Leadership Team and will report directly to Doug Sanders. Shawn brings to Sprouts close to 25 years’ experience in marketing and finance with executive roles in both the retail and financial services industries. Most recently, he served as co-founder and chief executive officer at a start-up consumer loyalty company. Prior to that, Gensch served as Target’s senior vice president of marketing, responsible for brand marketing, media, loyalty, and public relations. He also served as president of Target Bank and led the company’s financial product development. Gensch serves on the Board of Directors for GWG Holdings, Inc., Anser Innovation LLC., and Avenues for Homeless Youth.
“Never before have consumers had so many options when it comes to making decisions about where to shop for groceries and health products,” said Gensch. “Sprouts is uniquely positioned to meet the needs of our guests on that journey, by delivering value and variety for healthy living. This mission is paramount to the Sprouts brand and I am thrilled to become part of the team.”
Dan Sanders is joining the Sprouts team as executive vice president of store operations. He will report to Jim Nielsen, chief operating officer. With 25 years of experience in supermarket operations, Dan’s background includes three years as division president for SUPERVALU, leading store operations across various divisions including Albertsons and ACME Markets. He also spent ten years with United Supermarkets of Texas, serving in many roles, including chief executive officer. Sanders is a military veteran and The New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of two business books, and has served on the Board of Directors of the Food Marketing Institute and the Western Association of Food Chains.
“I look forward to helping Sprouts sustain its unique approach to inspiring healthy living for all through this period of growth,” said Dan Sanders. “Sprouts puts customers first by providing the best value, service and experience every day and I am honored to join the organization.”
