Van Helden named Stater Bros.’ board member

Pete Van Helden, Stater Bros. Markets’ president and chief executive officer, has been named to the board of directors of Stater Bros. Holdings Inc., the San Bernardino supermarket chain’s parent company.

Van Helden, who became Stater Bros.’ president and chief operating officer  in 2016, will continue to oversee the company’s day-to-day operations, according to a statement.

“Pete’s appointment comes with full board approval, and on behalf of the entire board of directors, it’s my pleasure to welcome Pete as our newest Board Member,” said Phillip J. Smith, Chairman Stater Bros. Holdings’ board chairman, in the statement.  “Pete will help provide the Board with insight into Stater Bros. Markets’ operations and future expansion plans.”

Van Helden is also chief executive officer of Stater Bros. Charities and is a member of the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Council.

Stater Bros. is the largest private employer in the Inland Empire, with 172 supermarkets and approximately 17,000 employees, according to the statement.