25 November 2021
Dear Valued Supplier Partner,
Today we have announced some changes to our Executive Leadership team that I wanted to share with you. These changes will take effect over the next five months.
Greg Davis, our Chief Executive, Commercial & Express, has decided this is the right time to take the next step in his career and will be leaving Coles in April next year.
Over the past 12 years, Greg has led almost every commercial business unit at some stage including Coles Liquor, Coles Express and Coles Supermarkets.
Since taking on the role of Chief Executive, Commercial and Express, Greg has delivered many noteworthy achievements, including;
- Delivering on our refreshed strategy to build trust, inspire customers (NPS) & grow sales
- Delivering Coles highest ever Supplier Engagement scores across both Express and Supermarkets as measured by the Advantage Group;
- Supporting suppliers through the last 20 COVID-impacted months with initiatives such as virtual town hall sessions and Supplier Awards to recognise best practice across the supplier community;
- Strengthening Coles relationship with our dairy farmers through development of Coles direct milk sourcing model;
- Improving our ethical sourcing and packaging programs to help deliver on our aspiration to be Australia’s most sustainable supermarket
- Lifting capability and strategic planning of category teams, including through Strategic Category Planning and Coles’ industry leading and award winning Mini-MBA in partnership with Deakin University;
- Delivering on our Category Acceleration program which has allowed suppliers and category teams to bring innovations such as Pet Treat Bars and Health in Every Aisle to market faster.
I want to take this opportunity to thank Greg for his valuable contribution to the growth and success of the business.
I am pleased to announce the appointment of Leah Weckert, currently CFO, to the role of Chief Executive, Commercial & Express. Leah will begin her induction to this role in March and will formally take up the position in April.
During her 10 years at Coles, Leah has demonstrated adaptability and leadership having held roles across many functions including merchandise, operations, human resources and strategy. Most recently, as CFO she has successfully led the finance, treasury, strategy, business development and investor relations functions, playing a significant role in the demerger of Coles from Wesfarmers.
Leah is excited about this next step in her career.
I wish Greg all the very best for the next stage of his career and wish Leah well in her new role.
In the meantime it’s “business as usual” as we prepare for Christmas, Summer and Easter trade. In terms of day-to-day engagement many of you will continue to work with your relevant General Manager within the Coles business. Please reach out to the GMs or a member of the category team if you have any questions.
I would like to thank you for your ongoing support and partnership with Coles, and wish you, your teams, and your families a well earned, enjoyable and safe holiday season.
Regards,
Steven Cain
Chief Executive Officer
Coles Group
