By Andrew Starke
Ray Group has appointed Matt Newberry as head of operations and asset management, as a retail expansion program gets underway at the company’s flagship coastal development, Salt Village.
The newly created role will see Newberry spearhead Salt Village retail’s $1 million-plus restructure and refurbishment, including the amalgamation of the existing IGA X-press and Salt Cellars Bottle Shop, the leasing and operation of new retail and office spaces, and an upgrade of Saltbar Beach Bar and Bistro to include conference and event facilities.
Newberry previously held the position of Coles National Manager for food, bars and marketing for seven years.
During his time with the Coles/ Wesfarmers Group, he was responsible for the business growth of the company’s national hotel portfolio comprising 97 venues and over 300 related retail liquor stores through acquisition, operations management and marketing.
Ray Group CEO Tom Ray said Newberry’s experience in hospitality and commercial management is a perfect fit for the company’s plans for retail growth.
“Matt is well known to the Gold Coast and Brisbane business community, is a well respected industry leader and brings a wealth of experience that will be instrumental in developing and growing our hospitality and retail assets,” Ray said.
“By September this year, Salt Village retail will have a whole new look, with new restaurants, stores and a refurbished Saltbar Beachbar and Bistro fit out to cater for events including weddings, conferences and parties,” he said.