After six years as chief financial officer with Foodstuffs North Island, David Stewart has now been appointed as the company’s general manager of merchandise, taking the role over from Baden Ngan Kee. “Under Baden’s leadership, the merchandise team has excelled, keeping on top of consumer trends and delivering innovative solutions across our banners at a time of increasing focus on e-commerce,” said Chris Quin, CEO of Foodstuffs North Island.
Speaking of Stewart’s appointment, which is effective immediately, Quin pointed out that his direction has been instrumental in enhancing the financial performance of the co-op; Stewart will now bring his expertise and insight to the merchandise team, focusing on the most effective and integrated practices.
“David’s strategic thinking, commercial acumen and strong leadership will be hugely beneficial in making shopping easier for customers, saving them time while innovating to provide inspiration about what to buy via the channel that’s most convenient for them,” Quin said.
Stewart is ready to take on this new role, ensuring customers’ needs are met by identifying where the market is going next.
“We know, for example, that shoppers are thinking more about healthy options and increasingly looking for products that have been sourced sustainably,” he said. “We’ve got to respond to those demands while at the same time continuing to offer great value and range.”
Foodstuffs North Island is now hunting for a new chief financial officer; in the meantime, the company’s current Group Financial Controller will be their acting CFO.
