Kathmandu Holdings ran a global search for its new CEO to replace the departing Xavier Simonet and found the candidate at home – literally.
Kathmandu said on Wednesday its new CEO will be Michael Daly who has been running the company’s latest acquisition Rip Curl for the past 8 years.
Kathmandu CEO David Kirk said in the statement to the NZX and the ASX:
“After an extensive international search, I am delighted to announce that Michael Daly will be the new Group CEO of Kathmandu Holdings. Michael has led Rip Curl for 8 years with a relentless focus on brand, product, people and the bottom line and we are confident he will bring the same focus and energy to the wider Group.”
Mr Daly said in the same statement:
“This is an exciting next step for me. The Group has a portfolio of outstanding brands in Kathmandu, Rip Curl and Oboz and I am looking forward to leading three great teams as we work together to grow and develop the Group.”
Mr Simonet, who headed up Kathmandu for five and a half years, is taking up a role as CEO of Austrade, the Australian Trade and Investment Commission. His departure was announced last November and he had six months to work while a new CEO was sought and found.
Mr Daly takes up his new position of Group CEO immediately. Kathmandu will now look for a new CEO for Rip Curl.
Will it look close to home again?
