Farhan Siddiqi to be interim CEO of the Ahold Delhaize unit

NEW YORK — Fresh Direct CEO David McInerney has stepped down from his position at the company he co-founded. Ahold Delhaize, which finalized its acquisition of Fresh Direct earlier this year, on Wednesday tapped Farhan Siddiqi, its chief digital officer, to serve as interim CEO of the online grocer.

“FreshDirect has been an amazing, life-changing, 20-year adventure for me,” said McInerney. “I have been so fortunate to have worked alongside an incredible team of talented, dedicated people who all share the same passion for our mission – to make great fresh food easy to get. Our amazing farmers, ranchers and fishermen have inspired me every day as partners, teachers, and true friends. With the commitment and support of Frans, Farhan, and the entire Ahold Delhaize team, FreshDirect is in excellent hands and well positioned for continued success.”

McInerney will continue in an advisory role through the end of October

“On behalf of Ahold Delhaize, I want to thank David for his dedication and leadership over the past two decades,” Siddiqi said. “As co-founder, David has been instrumental in establishing FreshDirect’s philosophy in bringing the best fresh and high-quality products to people’s doorsteps in the Tri-state area. We will ensure a smooth transition and honor FreshDirect’s unique customer-focused and food-centric culture and deep connection with its suppliers. FreshDirect’s customers will continue to enjoy the high-quality fresh food, great-tasting products and stellar service for which FreshDirect is known.”

A search will be initiated for a new CEO, who will lead FreshDirect in its next phase of growth as part of Ahold Delhaize.

Ahold Delhaize and Centerbridge Partners announced on November 18 that they had entered into a definitive agreement to acquire New York City-based FreshDirect. The sale closed on January 5.