Postie appoints new CEO
April 29, 2019
Iconic retailer Postie has announced
the appointment of Linda Leonard to Chief Executive
Officer.
Leonard this month took the mantle for the New Zealand office from Australian-based Rod Orrock who will continue to oversee parent company Greenlit Brands’ Australasian value brands.
With more than 30 years' experience in the apparel industry across New Zealand and the UK, Leonard’s strategic planning and business skills will help lead Postie into further growth, says Orrock.
“Linda has been an integral part of the senior management team since she joined Postie in 2015. Her contribution helped the company to turn a profit last year and she has supported strong foundations for sustainable growth.”
Originally from the UK, Leonard held a successful merchandising career at Arcadia Group, owner of high street retailers including Topshop and Dorothy Perkins, before an eight year tenure leading teams at British multinational retailer Debenhams.
Locally she has held senior roles in buying and planning at The Warehouse, Farmers and Number One Shoes.
In large part due to online shopping and social media, customers are looking for offshore trends in affordable fashion, says Orrock, and Leonard’s international and local fashion experience is a valuable asset.
“There’s been a significant change in the type of product that is now selling in our stores from when we first opened shop 110 years ago.
“We’ve kept our eye firmly on value and quality, invested heavily in our online offering, and Linda’s strong understanding of our customer will ensure we continue to cater to the Kiwi mum and her family.”
Leonard is excited about what lies ahead in her new role.
“As new entrants hit the New Zealand market, it’s important that we continue to really listen to our customers and meet their needs better than our global competitors.
“I’m very lucky to work with a world-class team of people with a genuine collaborative culture, and I look forward to the next chapter in Postie’s journey.”
Postie has also recently revealed a fresh campaign to launch its Autumn Winter season featuring homegrown musician Stan Walker alongside the simple message ‘THX NZ’ – a nod to Kiwis’ part in the company’s impressive 110-year tenure.
www.postie.co.nz
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