Metcash has appointed Chris Baddock as its new CEO of Liquor, commencing in 2019, following an extensive search for a successor to Scott Marshall.
Marshall stepped down as CEO of Australian Liquor Marketers (ALM) in March this year and took up the role of CEO of the Metcash Supermarkets and Convenience division.
Rod Pritchard has been acting as CEO of ALM since that time and will continue in this capacity until Baddock comes on board in 2019.
Baddock is a well credentialed executive with more than 25 years of experience, many of those in the liquor industry. He is currently the Director of Pinnacle and Direct, which is part of Endeavour Drinks Group.
Before that he spent 11 years with Lion, during which time he was the Managing Director of Fine Wine Partners, and held roles in Lion Wine and Tooheys Brewery.
He has also worked alongside independent retailers in his sales and business experience with H J Heinz, Snack Brands, Murray Goulburn and Alliance Marketing Corporation.
Metcash’s Group CEO, Jeff Adams, said that Baddock’s mix of experience positions him well to drive the continued growth of the Liquor business.
“We undertook an extensive internal and external global search for a successor to Scott. Chris’ deep Liquor experience here in Australia, including a strong track record of delivering sustainable growth and working with independent retailers, made him a standout candidate for this role,” Adams said.
Baddock said: “I am deeply passionate about the liquor business, and the critical role independent retailers have in it. I am very much looking forward to working with the Metcash team, retailers and suppliers as I transition into this new role next year.”