Linda Leonard named new CEO of Postie

Merchandise director Linda Leonard has been named chief executive of Postie, taking over from Rod Orrock, who held the position for the past three years.

Originally from the UK, Leonard brings more than 30 years’ experience in the apparel industry in the UK and New Zealand to the role.

She has had a successful merchandising career at the Arcadia Group, the owner of Topshop and Dorothy Perkins, and spent eight years leading teams at British department store Debenhams. Locally, she has held senior buying and planning roles at The Warehouse, Farmers and Number One Shoes.

She served as merchandise director at Postie from 2015 until April of this year, when she was promoted to the top spot.

Her appointment means Postie’s chief executive is now based in New Zealand, rather Australia, where Orrock had been based in his dual-role as CEO of Postie and Best & Less, which are both owned by Greenlit Brands.

Orrock said Leonard’s industry experience, strategic planning and business skills would enable her to lead the 110-year-old apparel retailer into further growth.

“Linda has been an integral part of the senior management team since she joined Postie in 2015. Her contribution helped the company turn a profit last year and she has supported strong foundations for sustainable growth,” he said.

“There’s been a significant change in the type of product that is now selling in our stores from when we first opened shop 110 years ago.

“We’ve kept our eye firmly on value and quality, invested heavily in our online offering, and Linda’s strong understanding of our customer will ensure we continue to cater to the Kiwi mum and her family.”

Leonard said she would continue to listen to Postie’s customers to ensure its offering resonates with Kiwis, as new entrants hit the New Zealand market.

“I’m very lucky to work with a world-class team of people with a genuine collaborative culture, and I look forward to the next chapter in Postie’s journey,” she said.

Orrock will continue to oversee Postie’s parent company Greenlit Brands’ Australasian value brands.

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