Milen Mahadevan discussed with CIO News tapping into Kroger’s data treasure trove, moving beyond AI pilots, and why people are the centerpiece to any successful AI strategy.

Chief Data and AI Officers are emerging as central figures in the race to turn potentially decades of rich operational and customer information into business impact.

Earlier this month, Kroger named Milen Mahadevan, currently president and CEO of its 84.51° subsidiary, as also the company’s first CDAO. The move comes as Kroger shifts its strategy from standalone AI tools, to building foundational capabilities that orchestrate work, improve decision making, and create more connected experiences. Over the past year, Kroger expanded use of its AI-powered digital shopping assistant, rolled out Sage, an internal AI virtual assistant used by over 150,000 associates, and launched collaborations with leading AI labs.

As CDAO, Milen oversees all of Kroger’s data and AI teams, and works closely with business leaders from merchandising, supply chain, marketing, store, and eCommerce operations to instill more focus and accountability across the company’s AI investments.

“AI is no longer experimental, but central to how we operate, scale impact, and create value,” Milen told CIO News. It’s “an opportunity to connect Kroger’s unique data assets, our science and technology capabilities, and our operating model in a way that can reshape how we work and how we serve customers.”

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