Ron Vachris, a driven Greek American, began his career as a forklift driver while pursuing a business degree. Over the course of his 40-year tenure, he climbed the corporate ladder to become the third CEO in Costco’s history in January 2024. With annual revenue exceeding $254 billion USD in US, Costco thrives on its private-label products and subscription model.
Renowned for his humility, Vachris attributes his success to unwavering hard work and perseverance, values deeply ingrained in his Greek heritage. In 2024, he earned a salary of $12.2 million USD.
Born in Staten Island, New York, Vachris relocated to Arizona during his teenage years. He commenced his professional journey at the age of 18 in 1982 with Price Club, Costco’s predecessor. Initially, he held a part-time position as a forklift driver while concurrently studying business at Glendale Community College. His exceptional work ethic propelled him to a full-time role and a lifelong commitment to the company. He progressed through regional management and operations before assuming the position of CEO in 2024. Throughout his career, Vachris has held diverse responsibilities, encompassing warehouse operations, merchandising, and real estate.
Presently residing in Sammamish, Washington, a city situated on the outskirts of Seattle, the birthplace of Costco, Vachris is a devoted father to three adult children: two sons and a daughter. He shares his life with his wife, Kim. Additionally, he has a granddaughter whom he proudly displays in his cubicle.
In an interview with South Sound Business, Vachris expressed his preference for spending his free time with his family, stating, “I am quite transparent about my priorities. My focus is on my family and my career.”
Vachris embodies the renowned quote by Thomas Edison, “There is no substitute for hard work,” and serves as an inspiration and example of the unwavering work ethic and virtues of millions of hardworking Greek Americans.
As of July 2025, Costco operates a global network of 910 warehouses. Notably, Costco is ranked 11th in the Fortune 500 list of the largest US corporations based on total revenue, as of 2024.
- Costco’s presence spans the United States, including Puerto Rico, with a presence of 626 locations; Canada, with 110 locations; Mexico, with 41 locations; Japan, with 37 locations; the United Kingdom, with 29 locations; South Korea, with 20 locations; Australia, with 15 locations; Taiwan, with 14 locations; China, with 7 locations; Spain, with 5 locations; France, with 2 locations; Sweden, with 2 locations; Iceland, with 1 location; and New Zealand, with 1 location.
Did Ron Vachris say he was Greek? When he visited the Bardstown Rd warehouse, Louisville, Kentucky, where I work he stated he was not Greek but Italian! Please do not post