Fresh Market Taps Chris Himebauch for Senior Leadership Team

Specialty grocer The Fresh Market has appointed retail industry executive Chris Himebauch as SVP and chief human resources officer, in which he will oversee corporate HR, field HR, talent acquisition, benefits and training teams. His new role is effective immediately.

“The Fresh Market is known for having best-in-class specialty food, sold in a friendly, engaging shopping environment,” Larry Appel, CEO of Greensboro, N.C.-based The Fresh Market, said in a statement. “Bringing Chris on board ensures that we’ll continue to offer unparalleled guest service in our stores by continuing to grow our extraordinary team members.”

Chis Himebauch photograph courtesy of The Fresh Market

Himebauch hails from his previous role as chief human resources officer at the discount department store Stein Mart Inc., based in Jacksonville, Fla., where he oversaw all aspects of human resources. Prior to Stein Mart, he was chief human resources officer for APR Energy from 2011 to 2016, and from 2007 to 2011, he was the senior director of field human resources for Winn-Dixie Stores Inc., where he managed a staff of 50 HR professionals in support of 521 stores, six distribution centers and one manufacturing plant for the Jacksonville-based retailer.

“I love working in the retail industry and am especially excited about joining The Fresh Market,” Himebauch said in a statement. “I am very optimistic about the company, our team members and making The Fresh Market not only a great place to shop, but also a great place to work.”

Related:Fresh Market Appoints New Chief Financial Officer

Touting high-quality fresh foods, specialty items and organic options, The Fresh Market operates 161 stores in 22 states across the U.S.