Costco CEO Craig Jelinek to step down; Ron Vachris named as new CEO
By Celene Ignacio
Costco Wholesale Corporation CEO Craig Jelinek has confirmed his intention to step down from his role, effective January 1.
The company’s board has appointed current president and COO Ron Vachris as the next president and CEO starting on January 1.
“I have total confidence in Ron and feel that we are fortunate as a company to have an executive of his caliber to succeed me,” Jelinek said.
Jelinek will continue to serve the company in an advisory role and assist in Vachris’ transition to the new role through April.
He will also remain on the board and stand for re-election at the annual meeting.
Asics names Koichiro Kodama its new North American CEO
By Celene Ignacio
Running shoe retailer Asics said managing executive officer Koichiro Kodama will return to Asics North America as president and CEO, effective immediately.
Kodama succeeds Richard Sullivan, who served as the president and CEO of the North American operations since January 2022.
“This appointment is important to the success of our brand in North America, and Kodama has a strong understanding of the business and a proven track record in the region,” said Asics president, CEO, and COO Yasuhito Hirota.
“I look forward to returning to North America and making an immediate impact with our partners and key accounts as we continue to foster strong collaboration, a deep connection with our consumers and bring the best products to market,” Kodama said.
Tupperware Brands names Laurie Ann Goldman as president, CEO
By Celene Ignacio
Kitchenware retailer Tupperware Brands has named Laurie Ann Goldman as president, CEO, and director on the board.
Goldman succeeds Miguel Fernandez as president and CEO, effective immediately. Fernandez has also stepped down from the board.
Prior to the new appointment, Goldman held CEO positions at Avon North America, Spanx, and OVME Aesthetics.
“Now is the right time to bring in new leadership, and Laurie Ann is exceptionally well-suited to advance our long-term strategy and accelerate growth,” said Susan Cameron, chair of the board of directors at Tupperware.
“Laurie Ann brings the right mix of business and brand experience and has built consumer affinity for some of the world’s most iconic brands.”
In addition, the company has appointed Lori Bush, Paul Keglevic, and William Transier to the board, with Mark Burgess, Meg Crofton, Deborah Ellinger and James Fordyce voluntarily departing.
With the new appointments and exits – including the previously announced departure of Richard Goudis – the board will be reduced to 11 directors, 10 of them independent.
Peloton appoints Kathryn Carter to head up its Australian business
By Celene Ignacio
Exercise equipment retailer Peloton has named Kathryn Carter as GM of its Australian operations. Carter succeeds Amanda Gilmore, who now heads the UK operations.
Prior to the new role, Carter served as GM at Snap’s Asia Pacific and Australia and New Zealand businesses, and as sales director at News Corp.
“Kathryn brings great experience in growing brands and communities and will be an asset to Peloton as more Australians discover and benefit from the motivating fitness experiences that we offer,” said Manu Seigner, VP, GM International at Peloton Interactive.
“I am excited to join Peloton at such a pivotal time and build on the incredible momentum and excitement for the brand in this country,” said Carter.
Leila Naja Hibri to leave Australian Fashion Council CEO role
By Celene Ignacio
Leila Naja Hibri decided to depart from the CEO role at the Australian Fashion Council (AFC) early next year, once a replacement is found.
“With a well-defined vision and strategic direction in place, it feels like the right time to hand responsibility for the AFC’s next phase on to a new CEO,” said Naja Hibri.
Having served as CEO for almost four years, she will remain at the council as its nominated director on the board of Seamless, a scheme that aims to create a circular clothing industry by 2030.
“Leila is no ordinary CEO. She places people at the heart of all she does and is passionate about driving positive industry change, responsible growth and social and environmental justice,” said AFC chair Marianne Perkovic.
She expressed appreciation for Naja Hibri’s efforts to lead several initiatives including the Australian Fashion Trademark to increase demand for design-led brands committed to responsible practice.
“This has created an incredible opportunity and a secure and positive environment for our next CEO to champion the Australian fashion and textile industry. On behalf of the board and our team, I sincerely thank Leila for her inspiring leadership.”
The AFC is now open to receiving expressions of interest in the search for a replacement.
