Hallenstein in search of chief

AUCKLAND: Tough retail conditions have forced yet another executive head to roll. Shayne Quanchi has stepped down from her role as chief executive of New Zealand fashion group Hallenstein Glasson, just seven months after being appointed to the position. Hallenstein Glasson chairman Warren Bell said tough conditions on both sides of the Tasman had made it necessary for the company to bunker down its New Zealand headquarters - a difficult move for Australian-based Quanchi.

"This change in direction has meant that Ms Quanchi has been required to be in New Zealand almost full time and we understand that this has placed considerable stress on her family life," Bell said.

"She has chosen to step down from the role rather than relocate her family from Melbourne and we naturally accept that decision."

It is understood the company is scouting internationally for a replacement chief executive.

Hallenstein Glasson owns and operates the Hallensteins and Glassons retail brands of clothing.