Heritage Grocers Group (HGG), one of the nation’s premier Hispanic and ethnic food retailers, has announced strategic executive leadership appointments and internal promotions designed to support the Company’s continued focus on serving customers, supporting Team Members, and advancing its long-term objectives.
The California-based retailer—operating banners including Cardenas Markets, El Rancho Supermercado, Los Altos Ranch Market, and Tony’s Fresh Market—is scaling its leadership infrastructure following last March’s appointment of Chief Executive Officer David Hinojosa.
“The success of Heritage Grocers Group begins with our people,” said CEO David Hinojosa. “These appointments support our commitment to delivering exceptional and locally relevant experiences for our customers while fostering an environment where Team Members can continue to thrive. By staying closely connected to our stores and communities, we can continue building on the unique strengths that define each of our banners.”
Key Executive Appointments
- Ryan Adams, Division President (Cardenas Markets & Los Altos Ranch Market): Brings over 30 years of retail experience (Vons, Albertsons, Pan Pacific Retail Management, and former President & CEO of Gelson’s Markets) to lead operations and strategic growth across both banners.
- Maria McDonald, Chief People Officer: Brings 20+ years of HR experience across Chedraui USA, McCormick & Company, and Campbell Soup Company to lead corporate talent strategy, organizational culture, and labor relations.
- Gil Salazar, Chief Information Officer: Former SVP & CIO at Stater Bros. Markets, Salazar brings three decades of tech leadership to drive HGG’s enterprise digital transformation, IT infrastructure, and store operations technology.
- Jay Sharrock, Division President (El Rancho Supermercado): A 38-year industry veteran and former Chief Merchandising & Marketing Officer for Vallarta Supermarkets, Sharrock will oversee El Rancho’s operations, leveraging extensive experience in the Texas Hispanic retail market.
Internal Leadership Promotions
- Adrian Castañeda, Chief Logistics Officer: A veteran of OXXO and Cardenas Markets (since 2008), Castañeda will oversee enterprise-wide distribution, logistics, and supply chain operations.
- Vince Gambino, Chief Merchandising Officer: A lifelong grocer who rose through the ranks at Tony’s Fresh Market, Gambino will steer vendor partnerships, sourcing, pricing, and merchandising strategy.
- Adam Salgado, Chief Experience Officer: Since joining Cardenas Markets in 2018 following a 19-year marketing career at McDonald’s, Salgado will helm omnichannel marketing and customer engagement strategy across all banners.
By pairing external industry heavyweights with deep internal talent, HGG is strategically positioned to strengthen vendor ties, streamline supply chains, and deepen community engagement across its national footprint.