Progressive MD Peter Smith to retire

Media Release - 22 February 2011

Progressive MD Peter Smith to retire

After an outstanding career in supermarket retailing, the Managing Director of Progressive Enterprises will retire.

Managing Director of Progressive Enterprises Limited, Peter Smith, will retire effective July 2011. Dave Chambers, General Manager of Supermarket Operations will take his place as Managing Director. Dave is an experienced retailer with over thirty years of experience in the New Zealand retail sector.

Peter joined Progressive Enterprises in 2006 from Woolworths Limited. Peter successfully led the consolidation, integration and subsequent growth of the business. He has been instrumental in transitioning the company to the new Countdown brand and strengthening its retail offer to New Zealand customers.

Peter, aged 54, leaves the retail sector following 37 years of service at Woolworths Limited. Peter started his career in 1974 as a trainee in Perth, Australia. He then progressed to roles in store management and area management then later became State Supply Chain Operations Manager and National Retail Operations Manager.

Dave Chambers will assume the role of Chief Operating Officer for Progressive Enterprises on 7 March 2011 before transitioning to the role of Managing Director in July. Dave, aged 47, joined Progressive Enterprises in 1979 in a junior store role and has risen through the ranks ever since. Dave was appointed Divisional Manager for Foodtown in 2001 and General Manager for Foodtown/Woolworths in 2002. Dave has been in his current role as General Manager of Supermarket Operations since 2008.

Woolworths Limited CEO, Michael Luscombe said: “We thank Peter for his many years of loyal service and for the enthusiasm he brought to every role he took on. We wish him and his wife Vicki well in their retirement.”

“As a core member of Peter’s executive team, Dave has played a key role in the transition of the business which now has great momentum. Dave will continue to guide Progressive Enterprises through its wonderful turnaround journey and we congratulate him on his well-deserved appointment,” Mr Luscombe added.

Progressive Enterprises operates 159 supermarkets in New Zealand under the Countdown, Woolworths and Foodtown brands. Progressive Enterprises is part of the Woolworths Limited group.

ENDS

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