Tracey Cullen Appointed as King Kullen's First Female President

By: Women Entrepreneurs Review Team | Friday, 5 June 2026

America's first supermarket King Kullen Grocery Co. Inc. has named Tracey Cullen, Esq., president and COO. Tracey’s nomination comes on the heels of Joseph W. Brown stepping down after 53 years with King Kullen, during which he served as president and COO for the last five years.

King Kullen was the first truly modern supermarket in America, a store with separate departments, self-service and discount pricing, all in one place, when it opened in 1930.

Tracey is also a descendant of the legendary King Kullen's founder, Michael J. Cullen, as she is the daughter of King Kullen Co-President Brian C. Cullen. Her last position was SVP, Company Operations. She was appointed following an annual meeting of King Kullen's board of directors by her uncle, King Kullen Chairman James A. Cullen Jr.

“This is a special day for the King Kullen organization as Tracey takes the helm of the company founded by her great-grandfather 96 years ago,” said James Cullen. “Over the years, my niece has taken on leadership roles of increasing responsibility and has played an important part in helping shape the company’s future. As King Kullen’s first female president, her appointment represents an important milestone for our company and reflects the respect she has earned throughout the organization.”

Tracey, who lives in Amityville, N.Y., started working at King Kullen in 2010. She serves on the board of directors and executive committee of King Kullen, is a member of the board of directors and executive committee of Long Island Cares and is a member of the board of directors of the Long Island Association (LIA).

Key Highlights:

• Tracey Cullen named President & COO of King Kullen, succeeding Joseph W. Brown after 53 years with the company
• Great-granddaughter of founder Michael J. Cullen, she becomes the supermarket chain’s first female president
• King Kullen, founded in 1930, is recognized as America’s first modern supermarket and operates over 20 stores on Long Island
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 “It is an incredible honor to assume this role at a company that has meant so much to my family for four generations,” she observed. “Growing up, I witnessed firsthand the values that continue to define King Kullen, including hard work and a deep commitment to the communities we serve across Long Island. I am grateful for the opportunity to build upon that tradition, which dates back nearly a century. I also want to express my sincere appreciation to Joe Brown for his guidance and support over the years. Joe’s knowledge of this company and dedication to its people have left a lasting impact on everyone who has had the privilege of working alongside him.”

James Cullen added: “We thank Joe for his extraordinary leadership and unwavering dedication to King Kullen. His contributions have been immeasurable, and his legacy will remain an important part of our company’s history.”

King Kullen, based in Hauppauge, N.Y., has over 20 stores in Long Island's Nassau and Suffolk counties.