James Sinegal

Jim Sinegal is the founder and former CEO of Costco Wholesale Corporation, known for transforming the company into a leading retailer in the United States with a focus on customer loyalty and innovative business practices. Under Sinegal’s leadership, Costco expanded from its founding to become a global retail organization, with annual revenues surpassing $39 billion during his tenure. Sinegal served as president, CEO, and director of Costco Wholesale Corporation, and previously held the same roles at PriceCostco Inc. following the merger of The Price Company and Costco Wholesale Corp. Earlier in his career, Sinegal was president of Sinegal/Chamberlin & Associates and held executive positions at The Price Company, Builders Emporium, and Fed-Mart Corporation, accumulating more than 40 years of experience in retail merchandising and operations.

Sinegal is recognized in the retail industry for his commitment to ethical business practices, employee satisfaction, and operational efficiency, which have become defining characteristics of the Costco brand. He has been acknowledged for his leadership and was named to Barron’s list of the world’s best CEOs. After retiring as CEO, Sinegal has remained active as a speaker and advisor, sharing expertise on retail innovation, leadership, and corporate responsibility at industry events and conferences. His insights continue to inform organizations focused on customer loyalty and sustainable business growth.