Department store giant Myer has announced it will conduct a major management reshuffle over the next few months as it moves the company forward on a number of new initiatives.
The changes, reported this morning, follow the resignation of Myer's executive general manager merchandise Penny Winn, who has been with the retailer since March 2008. Winn will exit Myer at the end of the year on December 8.
In an effort to bridge the gap left by Winn's departure, Myer chief executive officer Bernie Brookes has restructured the executive team. However, he said he is confident that the “focus on succession planning and building our management team credentials through the realignment of accountabilities over the past year has ensured or merchandise group general managers are well positioned to take on additional responsibility”.
Judy Coomber, group general manager fashion & accessories, will now assume responsibility for the cosmetics business, global sourcing offices, quality assurance & quality control and concessions.
While Adam Stapleton, group general manager mens, home and entertainment will take responsibility for the domestic supply chain, merchandise planning, and store and business support.
Coomber and Stapleton will also join Megan Foster, group general manager marketing & brand; Tim Clark, group general manager property and IT; Marion Rodwell, general counsel & company secretary; and Mark Ashby, Nick Abboud and Greg Travers on the executive management group.
Brookes has also flagged changes for the Myer teams in charge of multi-channel offers and the loyalty Myer One program, with the CEO confirming that the company will ramp up focus in these two areas significantly.
“We have also been focused for some time on making sure we have the right skills in place to address key areas of opportunity like further developing our multi-channel offer and strengthening our Myer One loyalty program,” Brookes said.
Going forward, Rob Gregory, general manager e-commerce, will report directly to Brookes, in response to the increasing demand by customers for an integrated offer across our stores, the internet and mobile devices. As a result of the move, Brookes will also will have direct oversight of the implementation of Myer’s multi- channel strategy.
Sarah Richardson, who joined Myer in July as general manager loyalty, research & social media, will also be heavily involved as the company looks to improve its multi-channel offer and loyalty programs. Richardson will be responsible for developing and implementing Myer's future strategy for the Myer One program and reports to Megan Foster, group general manager marketing & brand.
Despite the raft of changes, Brookes said the management restructure is a positive development that will allow the company to advance and tackle new challenges.
“The changes announced today will add value and focus to each area as we adapt to customer needs and manage future challenges. I have great confidence in the considerable talent and experience of the management team.”