Food City names director of store operations

K-VA-T officials in Abingdon, Va., have named John Jones as the company’s new EVP, director of store operations.

He succeeds Jody Helms, who retired after 15 years of service at the company, parent of the Food City chain.

John Jones

Jones brings more than 34 years of industry experience to the position. He first joined K-VA-T as a courtesy clerk at a Food City store in Johnson City, Tenn., while still in high school. He ascended through the ranks and has worked as store manager, district manager and most recently EVP of store operations for the company’s Knoxville Division. Jones’ new duties will include guiding the store operations team for the company’s 105 supermarkets, including its Gas N Go fuel centers and Food City Pharmacies. 

“I have been privileged to work with John Jones for more than 25 years, and watch him grow into the tremendous leader he is today,” said Steven C. Smith, K-VA-T president and CEO.  “John is a forward thinker with high expectations who is very passionate about his team. He is extremely committed to our associates, customers and the communities we serve, and I am confident that he will do an exceptional job serving in this key position within our company.”

“I am excited to have the opportunity to work with the entire Food City team to continue the mission our company was founded upon almost 60 years ago by Jack C. Smith, to ‘run the best store in town,’” said Jones.