Whole Foods Market (NASDAQ:WFM) is getting rid of its dual-CEO leadership structure, with co-founder John Mackey to serve as the sole CEO. 

The co-CEO Walter Robb will transition away from the position, and will remain on the Board of Directors and continue to serve as chairman for both Whole Kids Foundation and Whole Cities Foundation.

He will officially transition his co-CEO responsibilities on Dec. 31, and will continue to be a senior advisor to the company. Robb has served the company for 25 years, most recently as co-CEO for the previous six years.

"Under Walter’s leadership, Whole Foods Market has grown from 12 to 464 stores in three countries. He has been instrumental in accelerating investment in our digital strategy and technology transformation to meet the ever-changing retail landscape," Board of Directors chairman Dr. John Elstrott said.

"In the past year Walter and John have hired five new senior executives, and have adopted and made significant progress on their nine point strategic plan, putting the company in a strong foundational position for winning."

Meanwhile, Mackey said it was 'impossible to convey' what Walter has done for the company.

"His incredible passion for retail and sense of the customer makes him the most extraordinary retailer I’ve had the privilege to work with," he said.

"During his 25 years of leadership, Walter has been an advocate for the Whole Foods Market culture and a champion for our Team Members. His genuine love for our mission and our Team Members truly reflects what it means to be a conscious leader."

Photo: Via Wikimedia Creative Commons

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