New role for Countdown Managing Director

New role for Countdown Managing Director

Tuesday, 7 July 2015: Countdown’s Managing Director Steve Donohue will take up a new role within Woolworths Food Group following his appointment as Director of Buying and Merchandising for Woolworths Supermarkets, based in Sydney.

Over the last couple of years, Steve has been General Manager of Merchandise, and more recently Managing Director of Countdown. Steve was previously responsible for the Woolworths Liquor Group commercial team, in Sydney.

Woolworths Food Group Managing Director, Brad Banducci, said, “Steve has done an excellent job during his time with Countdown and Progressive. Particularly, he has been instrumental in driving the successful strategy to deliver Kiwis lower grocery prices.

“A new opportunity now exists for Steve’s abilities and he leaves a Countdown business that is performing solidly and consistently. Woolworths Supermarkets in Australia is the largest of our businesses and we need to rebuild sales momentum following a tough FY15. I know Steve will continue to make a valuable contribution to the Woolworths Food Group in this new role.

“I also want to assure Kiwi shoppers that Countdown’s strategy to deliver lower grocery prices every day will not change.”

Departing Managing Director Steve Donohue says, “I have really enjoyed my time in New Zealand. The decision to take up this new role in Australia was not an easy one, but I’m really excited about the opportunity it presents.”

“I have every confidence that the Progressive team, and the next Managing Director, will continue to drive forward the great work that Countdown is doing to deliver great prices and great service for Kiwi customers.”

Pat McEntee, Director of Store Operations for Woolworths Supermarkets, has been appointed as acting Managing Director. An announcement around a permanent appointment will be made in due course.

ENDS

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