Michael Savage

Michael (Mike) Savage is the Vice President of Health and Consumables Merchandising, with responsibility for impacting the chain’s 2,400 stores through frontend category management. He has been a strategic leader in transforming the merchandising team, focusing on both existing and aspirational customers and defining a differentiated in-store and online experience, with a balance of traditional versus alternative products and promotions. Priorities include elevating the company’s digital strategy to create a more seamless omnichannel experience.

Before joining Rite Aid Savage served as Chief Merchandising Officer for Earth Fare, a regional grocery chain that was first to identify and market to an emerging segment of consumers who yearned solely for organic, natural, and ‘better for you’ healthcare, beauty and grocery products. Prior to that, he served as Vice President of Merchandising of center store and health (2015-2019), leading the expansion of the Fresh Thyme Farmers Market chain (a subsidiary of Meijer Corp). Savage has over 30 years of merchandising expertise including responsibilities for category management, private Label, pricing, replenishment and supply chain. Upon earning his bachelor’s degree in Advertising / Business from The University of Georgia he joined Macy’s executive training squad; later going on to spent five years with Dick’s Sporting Goods during their nationwide expansion. Savage spent a successful decade with Target Corporation culminating in the role of Director of Merchandise Planning for Healthcare. His career accomplishments include negotiating and launching exclusive designers and brands, pioneering the introduction of grocery at Target stores, and an international assignment as Vice President of Merchandising with Toys-R-Us, living abroad in Tokyo, Japan.

Mike and his husband Adam reside in Asheville, North Carolina, and just celebrated 23 years together. They enjoy cooking, dining out and spending time with family and friends. They have a highly energetic Jack Russell terrier named Maverick.

Mike Savage is the Vice President of Health and Consumables Merchandising, with responsibility for impacting the chain’s 2,400 stores through frontend category management. He has been a strategic leader in transforming the merchandising team, focusing on both existing and aspirational customers and defining a differentiated in-store and online experience, with a balance of traditional versus alternative products and promotions. Priorities include elevating the company’s digital strategy to create a more seamless omnichannel experience.