Matt Van Gilder, B.B.A.’13, MBA’17

Grocery Guiding Force

Director of E-Commerce and Digital Experience, SpartanNash

With 17 years in the grocery industry, Matt Van Gilder has a background ranging from bagging groceries in high school to becoming the director of e-commerce and digital experience at SpartanNash. His journey began in his family’s grocery business. He served as a cashier during his college years, and that led to a role as an assistant store director. After earning two degrees from WMU Haworth, Van Gilder quickly moved up the ranks in the marketing department at SpartanNash.

In his current role, he leads his team to extend the same exceptional customer experience found in SpartanNash’s physical stores to their mobile apps, website and e-commerce platforms. He spearheaded the company’s online curbside pickup and home delivery program, launching the first curbside program in July 2017.

Beyond his professional pursuits, Van Gilder contributes to his community, serving on boards for the YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids and Junior Achievement of Michigan Great Lakes. He’s a recognized speaker at industry events like Groceryshop and the National Grocers Association, and was a 2020 Progressive Grocer GenNext 40 under 40 honoree.

Hidden Talent:

“Gift wrapping!”