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 past couple of years, Mr Donohue has been general manager of merchandise and, more recently, managing director of Countdown in New Zealand. He was previously responsible for the Woolworths Liquor Group commercial team in Sydney.
“Steve has done an excellent job during his time with Countdown and Progressive,” Woolworths Food Group Managing Director Brad Banducci said. “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.”
Director of Store Operations for Woolworths Supermarkets Pat McEntee has been appointed as Acting Managing Director for Countdown. An announcement around a permanent appointment will be made in due course.