Peter Halkett appointed incoming CEO of Brandbank Group
David Thomas stepping down after four successful years as CEO.
Brandbank Group is pleased to announce that Peter Halkett has been appointed Chief Executive Officer, effective July 2023. Mr Halkett’s appointment follows the resignation of David Thomas who, after four years leading Brandbank Group, will leave the group at the end of the financial year.
Mr Halkett is a well-credentialed leader of multi-brand retail businesses. Peter was CEO of APG & Co. (owner of Sportscraft, SABA, and Jag) from 2015 to 2020. Mr Halkett was also CEO of Kathmandu between 2006 and 2014, during which time he oversaw the business’ growth from small business origins, to become one ofAustralasia’s most successful retailers.
Peter will commence at Brandbank Group from July 2023, with transition planning underway.
Brandbank Group Founder and Chairman Peter Lew said:
"Peter Halkett is a seasoned leader with a strong track record of growing retail brands across domestic and international markets. Peter has the passion, commitment, and dedication to continue to drive success at Brandbank and I look forward to working with him.”
Mr Peter Halkett said he is thrilled to be appointed as CEO of Brandbank Group and will continue to build on the strong foundations of the business.
"Brandbank has a portfolio of highly recognised brands that are well-positioned for future growth. I am delighted to join the Group and work with the team to continue to enhance business performance and deliver great brand experiences for customers,” said Mr Halkett.
Current Brandbank Group CEO David Thomas joined the business in July 2019 and will leave the business having successfully delivered on the Group’s strategy. In addition to growing the Seed Heritage and French Connection brands, this strategy involved the acquisition of Swedish-inspired stationery business, kikki.K, and the launch of brands Commonry, allkinds and FINE-DAY.
Peter Lew acknowledged David’s contribution to Brandbank Group, stating:
"Brandbank has transformed under David’s stewardship. Despite experiencing significant uncertainty during the pandemic, David worked with our teams to oversee the upgrade to the company’s digital capabilities, launching brands internationally online, and implementing new systems and supply chains. David’s value-driven leadership has shaped our team to foster a creative and inclusive culture.
"I would like to thank David for his dedication to the business and for overseeing significant change during his tenure, and I wish him all the best".
Mr David Thomas thanked the Brandbank Group board for the opportunity to serve as CEO and said he was proud of what his team had achieved over the past four years.
"It has been a privilege to be the leader of this successful business, and establish an inclusive culture, driven by our wonderful teams. We have established a collection of leading Australian lifestyle brands that appeal to abroad range of customers, both locally and internationally. The team are dedicated to delivering brilliant customer experiences and strong brand performance.
"I am particularly proud of leading our digital and supply chain transformation, as well as adding the new brands to our Group portfolio. The business is well positioned to execute on the next phase of our strategy, with strong brands, new systems, and a highly focused and energised team.
"I would also like to thank Peter Lew for giving me the opportunity to serve as CEO and for his incredible trust and support. I remain a proud supporter of Brandbank, and I look forward to watching all the future success of the Group,” Mr Thomas said.
