Rite Aid names new svp of human resources

CAMP HILL, Pa. Rite Aid on Monday promoted Steve Parsons to senior vice president of human resources.

"We're fortunate Steve decided to join Rite Aid when we acquired Brooks/Eckerd because he has been invaluable in helping us combine the two companies," stated Mary Sammons, Rite Aid president, chairman and chief executive officer. "His wide-ranging experience in all aspects of human resources has been a big benefit to Rite Aid, and we have been impressed by all he's accomplished in such a short time. We look forward to what he can bring to our company with these additional responsibilities."

Parsons previously had been group vice president. Parsons initially joined Rite Aid in June 2007 with the company's acquisition of the Brooks/Eckerd drug store chain. As the former senior vice president of human resources for Brooks/Eckerd, he has played a key role in integrating more than 1,800 acquired stores and 45,000 new associates into Rite Aid, the company announced.

In his new position, Parsons, 43, will be responsible for all aspects of human resources, including compensation and benefits, training, recruitment, talent management, leadership development, labor relations, customer satisfaction initiatives, diversity programs and change management. Rite Aid currently has more than 115,000 associates.

Parsons will report directly to Sammons. He succeeds Todd McCarty, who is leaving the company to take another position.