Okamoto, Doiron join Fresh Thyme management team
Fresh Thyme Farmers Market on Tuesday said that two experienced grocery industry leaders, Carol Okamoto and Mark Doiron, have joined its executive team.
“We are excited to have Carol and Mark join the Fresh Thyme family,” Chris Sherrell, CEO of Fresh Thyme, said in a statement. “They both bring with them extensive experience that will help align our processes to become more efficient, and support our continued growth and success.”
Sherrell said earlier this year the company, which operates farmers’ market-style stores in the Midwest, was searching for experienced executives to help the fast-growing chain emerge from the “start-up” phase. Fresh Thyme, which opened its first store in 2014, said it would operate 70 stores by the end of 2017. Sales are in excess of $500,000 annually, Sherrell said.
Okamato brings more than 14 years of experience to her new role, in which she will oversee accounting, financial planning and analysis, pricing and information technology. Prior to joining the company, she served as controller for Roundy’s Supermarket, which was acquired by Kroger late in 2015. She also has experience with True Value and Crate & Barrel.
Fresh Thyme was launched by former members of the Sunflower Markets management team following that chain’s sale to Sprouts Farmers Market. Meijer Inc. is a silent investor in Fresh Thyme.