• Cathy Seaholme
    Cathy Seaholme
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Super Retail Group has announced that Macpac CEO Alex Brandon will step down from the role in October. 

Brandon will be replaced by current Priceline Pharmacy GM of retail operations Cathy Seaholme on October 25. 

A seasoned retail operator, Seaholme will bring seven years of experience from The Body Shop Australia, as well as 13 years at Country Road Group, to her new position at Macpac. 

The leadership transition forms part of a planned strategy, following Super Retail Group's acquisition of Macpac in 2018 for NZ$144 million. 

Super Retail Group CEO Anthony Heraghty thanked Brandon for his work and leadership of the brand. 

"During nearly a decade leading Macpac, Alex has overseen its evolution from a small wholesale business to one of the most recognisable outdoor adventure brands in our region. 

"Following the successful integration of Macpac into Super Retail Group, now is the right time for a leadership transition," Heraghty said. 

Heraghty added that the Group is excited for what Seaholme will bring to the brand. 

"In wishing Alex all the very best for the future, we acknowledge his critical role in successfully integrating Macpac with Super Retail Group and thank him for his leadership and his commitment to maintaining the heritage, quality and integrity of the Macpac brand. 

"Cathy's appointment represents the culmination of a long-planned succession strategy for the Macpac business and I am confident her deep retail experience and commitment to the customer will help drive the next phase of growth for Macpac," Heraghty said. 

Speaking on his departure, Brandon praised Macpac and what it has achieved as part of Super Retail Group. 

"It has been a privilege to lead our passionate team of dedicated team members who have contributed to the success of Macpac and grown awareness of a truly authentic and sustainable brand. 

"I am particularly proud of our track record of leading innovation without in any way diminishing our proud heritage deep-rooted in adventure," he said. 

In its FY21 results, Macpac reported a 16.3% increase in sales to $153.4 million, as a result of a 14.2% increase in like for like sales. 

The brand's online sales lifted 38% to $30 million, accounting for 21% of sales. 

Seaholme will officially take up her position on October 25 and will relocate with her family to New Zealand to operate out of Macpac's headquarters in Christchurch. 

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