WEST SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Ahead of the closing of its previously announced acquisition of Bashas’ Family of Stores later this month, Raley’s has promoted Laura Croff to chief human resources officer of The Raley’s Companies, a newly formed enterprise that will oversee the organization’s independent operating divisions.

In her expanded capacity, Croff will oversee all human resources strategy, benefits, labor, compensation, training and development for both the Raley’s and Bashas’ chains. Her direct reports will include the human resources leaders who focus on each operating company, and she will continue to report to Keith Knopf, president and CEO of Raley’s Cos.

Laura Croff

Croff has served in various leadership capacities at Raley’s over the past 20 years, most recently as senior vice president of human resources. She holds multiple certifications, including Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR), Professional in Human Resources – California (PHRca) and Human Resource Management Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP). She is also certified to deliver 360-degree feedback through VOICES – Korn Ferry and the Center for Creative Leadership.

“Laura is a proven leader with deep expertise and strategic vision,” Knopf said. “We are fortunate to have such a talented and purpose-driven leader who always places the needs of our team members first and foremost.”

Knopf and Edward “Trey” Basha, president and chief executive officer of Bashas’, said when the acquisition was announced back in early October that Bashas’ store banners, employment, and operations across Arizona will continue without change or interruption. Basha, who is also the grandson of the company’s co-founder, said that Bashas’ is beginning its “next, exciting chapter as a fully formed operating company within the larger Raley’s enterprise.

“In Raley’s we will have a partner who will ensure we continue delivering exceptional customer and member experiences at a time when regional grocery competition has never been tougher – while staying true to the values that have shaped our history over 90 years.”

Knopf said Raley’s was “humbled to assume stewardship” of the Bashas’ organization.

“Raley’s history of respecting the legacy of the brands we acquire assures continuity for Bashas’ customers, employees, and business partners,” he added. “And, on behalf of our 13,000 employees, I want to welcome Bashas’ team members to our organization. The Bashas’ company is strong and well-positioned in the market. We are confident that with our robust digital capabilities and combined purchasing power, we can further enhance the overall customer experience.”

The acquisition agreement called for Bashas’ to function as a fully formed operating company within the Raley’s enterprise, maintaining its own corporate headquarters, stores, and distribution center in Arizona. The companies said there would be no changes to store banners or to local store leadership, and no planned changes to employee roles, compensation, or benefits as a result of the deal.