A Cincinnati judge has ordered former Kroger CEO Rodney McMullen to explain—in writing—why he unexpectedly resigned in March, forcing him to confront what his attorneys call “completely irrelevant” and “embarrassing” questions in a lawsuit involving singer Jewel.
McMullen, who led the Cincinnati-based grocery giant for more than a decade, resigned following what Kroger described as an investigation into his “personal conduct.” As part of his departure, McMullen forfeited all of his unvested equity and bonuses—a total of $11 million, according to an SEC filing.
