By Andy Young
Ian Morrice has notified the Metcash board of his intention to retire as Group CEO in 2018, following five years in the role.
Morrice was appointed as Group CEO in June 2013, after initially joining the board as a non-executive Director a year earlier. Metcash Chairman Rob Murray acknowledged Morrice’s contribution to the company and said he was hopeful of announcing a successor soon.
“Ian has made a significant contribution to the transformation and growth of Metcash,” Murray said.
“He successfully led a number of key strategic initiatives, including the ongoing transformation program, divestment of our automotive business and the acquisition of Home Timber & Hardware. We now also have a very capable management team in place to take the business forward.
“Under Ian’s leadership, we have seen many of our independent retail customers improve their competitive position through implementing our transformation initiatives to deliver the ‘Best Store in Town’.
“Ian has also overseen the successful repositioning of the company with the delivery of a strong balance sheet and a lower cost base.”
Murray added: “The board has been undertaking a comprehensive process of succession planning following earlier advice from Ian that he was considering retiring at the end of five years in the role. We expect to be able to make an announcement on a successor in the near future.”
Morrice said: “It is a privilege to lead the Metcash business and work with such a passionate team of people who fight for the success of independent family business every day. Therefore my decision to retire has not been an easy one.”
Metcash said that Morrice will remain as Group CEO until his successor has been appointed and has gone through a process that ensures a smooth transition.