In a statement published this week, Woolworths Group said Brad Banducci had given notice of his intention to retire after 13 years with the company, and eight and a half years as chief executive.
Mr Banducci’s resignation comes after a tumultuous start to the year for the group, with a looming ACCC inquiry into pricing practices of Australia’s supermarkets. Mr Banducci also faced some backlash this week after storming out of an interview, which aired on TV on Monday night.
Woolworths Group Chair, Scott Perkins said: “On behalf of the Board and all of the Woolworths Group team, I would like to thank Brad for his outstanding leadership and contribution.
“Brad has led a remarkable turnaround and transformation of the Group. He has engendered a Customer 1st Team 1st culture, worked to strengthen existing businesses and build digital, eCommerce and analytics capabilities that are seen by our peers as world leading. Most importantly, he has built a team of amazing calibre. Woolworths Group has been fortunate to have Brad as its leader and he has indeed helped us to be better together.
“The test of any CEO is to leave the business in much better shape than when they started. On that simple metric, history will judge Brad to have been one of Woolworths Group’s finest leaders.
“Following an extensive international search process supported by external consultants, we are thrilled to announce the appointment of Amanda Bardwell as the incoming and 13th Managing Director and Group CEO of Woolworths Group, as the Group starts its next century of creating better experiences together for a better tomorrow.
“Amanda is a proven leader, business builder and modern retailer. Most recently, under her leadership, WooliesX has gone from infancy in 2015 to a $7bn market leading business. Amanda is highly respected throughout the organisation and I know, like Brad, will live our purpose and work hard to achieve Woolworths Group’s full potential.”
Brad Banducci said: “It has been a privilege to be a member of the Woolies team and one I have never taken for granted. We have a wonderfully talented and passionate team at Woolworths Group, as personified in Amanda Bardwell, and I look forward to working with Amanda and our team over the next few months as we set ourselves up for the next chapter.”
Amanda Bardwell has a Bachelor of Business in Marketing from the Queensland University of Technology and a Masters of Business Administration from the University of NSW. Amanda has nearly 30 years’ experience in retail, 23 years of those at Woolworths Group. Amanda brings a deep understanding of traditional and modern retail, has delivered multiple transformations, and has led and helped to build two of Woolworths Group’s most successful growth businesses in eCommerce and Loyalty. Amanda also has extensive experience in the Food business including Head of Marketing for Woolworths Supermarkets.
