Hotels, alcohol, and gaming facilities operator Endeavour Group has named Ari Mervis as its new chairman, succeeding Peter Hearl, effective by the end of April.

Mervis is currently the chairman of Myer and McPherson’s and previously served as executive chairman of Accolade Wines and as CEO of Murray Goulburn.

The new appointment marks an orderly transition with Hearl retiring after serving as chairman since 2021, when Endeavour Group demerged from Woolworths Group.

Meanwhile, Bruce Mathieson Jr will step down as a non-executive director, effective on or before June 30.

“As Endeavour moves into its next phase post demerger and in line with orderly board succession and renewal planning, the board and I firmly believe now is the right time to commence a transition to a new chairman,” said Hearl.

“Under our phased approach, we can deliver stability and a smooth transition, allowing Endeavour management to remain focused on continuing to strengthen the business.”

The company has appointed Peter Margin and upcoming chairman Mervis as independent non-executive directors, subject to probity and regulatory approvals.

In addition, shareholder BMG will nominate an alternative director to the board in due course to continue their representation.

Further reading: Woolworths set to sell stake in Endeavour Group for $636 million.