Dave Chambers, MD of Progressive Enterprises and Countdown supermarkets for the for the last four years, will move to Australia to take up a role at Countdown parent, Woolworths.

Chambers has been appointed Woolworths director of supermarkets.

As a result, Steve Donohue, GM general merchandise, has been appointed acting MD at Progressive Enterprises until a new appointment has been made.

Progressive Enterprises is part of Woolworths, and is also the franchisor of the Super Value and Fresh Choice supermarkets.

There are 170 Countdown stores in New Zealand, along with 56 Super Value and Fresh choice locations.

The appointments are part of broader changes at Woolworths’ Australian operation, and follow the resignation of Australian former food and liquor MD, Tjeerd Jegen.

Head of Woolworths’ liquor business, Brad Banducci, will take over from Jegen.

“This change places our best talent to lead our biggest businesses. Together, Brad and Dave bring the right mix of experience and the ability to create a winning operating culture,” said Grant O’Brien, Woolworths Group CEO.