Walgreens CEO Roz Brewer announced her departure after more than two years as the top executive of the company. Brewer is one of the few Black women to lead a Fortune 500 company.
Brewer was appointed to the role of CEO in September of 2019, and officially stepped down from the position on Friday, April 30, 2021. During her tenure, Brewer led Walgreens through a period of significant change in the retail industry, including the rise of more digital and ecommerce-focused business models. Under Brewer, Walgreens successfully transitioned to an omni-channel retail experience.
Brewer has more than 30 years of experience in nutrition, retail, and technology, including her previous role as COO at Starbucks. She has broken down many of the barriers that have historically prevented women from entering the corporate world. Brewer was the first African-American woman to hold the role of President of Starbucks’ US business and Region President for the Coffee giant, a testament to her impact on the industry.
Brewer states that her time at Walgreens was amongst some of the most trying times the industry has faced, considering the ongoing pandemic and the challenges it presented. She also thanked the Walgreens team for their leadership, strength, and commitment, which has driven significant transformation in the business.
Brewer has played a leading role in driving diversity and inclusion at the nation’s largest pharmacy chain. With her at the helm, the company made progress in addressing the diversity and inclusion of its workforce and leadership, and in supporting the health and wellness of communities served by Walgreens health care business.
Brewer leaves a legacy as a strong leader and advocate for the retail industry. With her departure, Walgreens has named Richard Ashworth as the new interim President and CEO. He has served as Walgreens’ President and COO since October 2018, and was previously the President of Sam’s Club.
In closing, Brewer credited team Walgreens for their achievements, saying that “Together, we have reset the course for Walgreens moving forward.” With her departure, she leaves a powerful legacy of transformation and progress for the retail industry.