Harps Food Stores makes leadership changes after longtime exec retires

Springdale-based Harps Food Stores Inc. announced Monday (Aug. 26) key leadership changes following the retirement of Mike Thurow, senior vice president of store systems and chief information officer.

Jim Bob Tackett, director of store technology, has been appointed as the new vice president of store systems, and John Taylor, vice president of information systems, was named to the company’s executive committee after Thurow’s retirement. Thurow worked for the company for 41 years.

“[Mike] has been invaluable in his role,” said Kim Eskew, chairman and CEO for Harps. “I am saddened by his retirement, but Mike has accomplished much and should be remembered for his tremendous contribution to our company.

“At a time when changing jobs every two or three years has become the norm, we are delighted to promote Jim Bob and John, who have distinguished themselves at our company since they began working for us in high school. Their knowledge and experience within our company has prepared them for this step, and we are thrilled to see what they will accomplish in the years ahead.”

Tackett joined Harps in 1990 as a part-time stocker in Fayetteville. After graduating from the University of Arkansas in 1997 with a bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering, he became a systems analyst for Harps. He was promoted to director of store technology in 2014. In this role, he’s overseen the implementation of technologies and systems that have enhanced operational efficiencies across the company.

A Northwest Arkansas native, Taylor joined Harps in 1992 as a sacker. In 1998, he earned a bachelor’s degree in computer systems engineering from the UA. During his time at Harps, he’s been promoted multiple times, including from programmer/analyst to director of information systems. In February, he was promoted to vice president of information systems. Taylor was added to the executive committee after Thurow retired.

Harps is a 100% employee-owned company and operates 147 stores in six states, including Arkansas. The company has more than 7,200 employees.