W. Craig Jelinek
W. Craig Jelinek, hailing from Lancaster, California, is a prominent figure in the retail industry and currently serves as the CEO ofCostco.He began his career with part-time employment as a food stockerat Fed-Mart's Lancaster franchise while attending high school and junior college. Jelinek continued working for Fed-Mart during his college years, ultimately earning an Associate's degree in Business Administration in 1975.
Throughout his professional journey, Jelinek held various management positions, includingoperations manager for Fed-Mart's Los Angeles divisionuntil its closure in 1982. He subsequently worked with a department store chain called Gemco for two years.In 1984, Jelinek joined Costcoand played a significant role in the company's expansion into Nevada and California. As Assistant Vice President and Regional Manager, he oversaw the opening of multiple warehouses, including those in Reno, Las Vegas, Fresno, Bakersfield, Stockton, and various locations across Northern and Southern California.
During Costco's growth phase in the mid-1980s, Jelinek faced numerous challenges. With limited central support departments, he had to assume multiple responsibilities, ranging from managing operations and warehouse staff to attending city council meetings and collaborating with architects.
In 1992, Jelinek returned to the Puget Sound regionand assumed the position of Senior Vice President of Operations for the West Coast. Followingthe merger with Price Club in 1993, he took charge of the Northwest Region. In 2004, Jelinek was promoted to Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Merchandising, overseeing various departments such as E-commerce, Fresh Foods, Meat, Bakery, Deli, Produce, Foods, Non-Foods, Pharmacy, and Home/Business Centers.
In recognition of his leadership and contributions,Jelinek was named President and Chief Operating Officer of Costco in 2010, and he also joined the company's Board of Directors. When Jim Sinegal retired in January 2012, Jelinek assumed the role of CEO.
Throughout his career, W. Craig Jelinek has demonstrated exceptional leadership skills, adaptability, and a deep understanding of Costco's operations. Under his guidance, the company has continued to thrive and expand, maintaining its position as one of the leading retail giants.
