Aldi Australia names Anna McGrath as CEO
By Rakshnna Pattabiraman
Aldi Australia has named Anna McGrath as its new CEO, succeeding former local chief Tom Daunt who became the business’ joint MD in May.
McGrath has been with the company for 17 years in various leadership roles and was the former group MD for both US and Australian businesses.
Of her appointment, McGrath said she is “honoured” to lead the business, adding that Aldi has always been focused on price leadership, but “it has never been more important than now”.
“We have a responsibility to maintain our price gap and show Australians, that are facing pressures within their family budgets, that they will achieve serious savings by changing their weekly shop to Aldi, without compromising on quality.”
According to third-party data, the company’s Price Promise helped contribute $3.1 billion in savings delivered directly to customers last year.
“We have a very strong strategy in place that is resonating with Australian customers, I’m looking forward to bringing Aldi savings to more and more households,” said McGrath.
Coles names Anna Croft as its new chief commercial officer
By Rakshnna Pattabiraman
Anna Croft has been appointed as Coles’ new chief commercial officer, effective January next year.
Croft is the current COO of Mecca Brands where she helped transform the retailer’s business operations for health and beauty.
She comes with 20 years of industry experience and has worked with leading retailers such as Tesco, Coles, Mecca Brands and WHSmith in the UK and Australia.
Coles CEO Leah Weckert said she is delighted that Croft is returning to Coles with significant leadership experience in both local and international retail.
“Anna will play an essential role with our team and suppliers to deliver exceptional quality products, innovative exclusive brands and convenient meal solutions for our customers at a great value.”
Madewell appoints experienced retail leader as new president
By Aron Lewin
J.Crew Group has announced the appointment of Adrienne Lazarus as the president of Madewell, a women’s fashion retailer and sister brand to J.Crew, effective from September.
Lazarus, who will report to J.Crew Group CEO Libby Wadle, has led a variety of fashion and retail brands over her 30-year career. This includes serving as CEO of lingerie brand Cuup, and working as a senior advisor at McKinsey & Company.
In the past, she led companies including Bandier,Frye and Intermix through growth periods, and was president of women’s clothing company Ann Taylor, which underwent a significant brand turnaround.
Wadle said that Lazarus’ strategic approach, entrepreneurial spirit and proven track record made her an ideal leader for the Madewell brand.
“Madewell is an iconic brand with well-positioned product, deep customer loyalty and a unique focus on creating community,” Larazus said.
New president, CEO at Wolverine Worldwide
By Aron Lewin
Footwear and lifestyle company Wolverine Worldwide has announced Christopher E. Hufnagel as president and CEO, effective immediately. He has also been appointed to the board of directors.
Hufnagel – who replaced predecessor Brendan L. Hoffman – joined Wolverine in 2008, and served in a variety of management and leadership roles across the company.
He was previously president of the company’s active and kids brands, overseeing the likes of Merrell, Saucony and Chaco. Prior to this role, Hufnagel worked in leadership roles at Under Armour, Gap and Abercrombie & Fitch.
“I am honoured to step in as CEO at this critical moment for the company. Wolverine Worldwide maintains some of the world’s most recognisable and loved lifestyle and footwear brands, and transforming our business to bring the full power of these brands to life will be a key driver of our success,” Hufnagel said.
“I have had the privilege of working with many teams across this organisation over the past 15 years, and we have what it takes to build a stronger, more resilient company.”
