The grocery industry was stunned to learn of the sudden passing of Lee Delaney, the CEO and president of club merchant BJ’s Wholesale earlier this month. According to multiple sources, the 49-year-old chief executive died of a heart attack while running.
“We are shocked and profoundly saddened by the passing of Lee Delaney. Lee was a brilliant and humble leader who cared deeply for his colleagues, his family and his community. We extend our most heartfelt condolences and sympathy to his family, especially his wife and two children. We will honor his legacy and remember the extraordinary impact he had on so many. Our thoughts are with them during this difficult time,” said Christopher J. Baldwin, executive chairman of the BJ’s board and a former chief executive of the club store operator.
Bob Eddy, who was executive VP-chief administrative and financial officer, was named interim CEO. Eddy joined the company in 2007 and was named executive VP-CFO in 2011. He assumed the role of chief administrative officer in 2018. Additionally, at that time, Baldwin was elevated to the new position of executive chairman.
“Bob partnered closely with Lee and has played an integral role in transforming and growing BJ’s Wholesale Club,” said Baldwin on behalf of the board. “We have the utmost confidence in Bob’s leadership and his deep knowledge of the business. We expect to announce permanent changes to our leadership within a reasonably short time frame, aided by our prior succession planning.”
Delaney joined BJ’s in 2016 as chief growth officer and was named president 2019. He added chief executive duties for the high-volume retailer last year, replacing Baldwin who became chairman of the board.
Before his BJ’s career, Delaney served as a partner in the Boston office of management consulting firm Bain & Company, and a leader in the firm’s consumer products practice. While at Bain, Delaney advised clients on corporate strategy, created new market entry plans, supported client acquisitions, and advised on large cost reduction programs. Prior to joining Bain in 1996, Delaney worked for Electronic Data Systems and Deloitte Consulting advising clients on a variety of engagements.
Delaney was a 1993 graduate of the University of Massachusetts, where he received a BS with a double major in computer science and mathematics. He received his master’s degree from Carnegie Mellon University.
He is survived by his wife Robin and two sons.