Greencross names new CEO, fills out management team

Three months after de-listing from the ASX and transitioning to a private company, Greencross Limited has hired Bras N Things boss George Wahby to replace Simon Hickey as its new chief executive.

Wahby has led Bras N Things since 2014, and prior to that, he ran McWilliam’s Wine Group for six years. He will join the pet car retailer in August.

The company’s current chief executive Simon Hickey will leave the business, with executive chairman Paul Mirabelle serving as acting chief executive until Wahby starts.

“As Greencross transitions into life as a private company, the board has determined that now is the right time to identify the future generation of leadership and have sought the appointment of a leader to take the business through the next phase of growth,” Mirabelle said in a statement.

“George has considerable experience building consumer-focused brands, developing new products and growing ominchannel retail experiences – all areas that current owners TPG Capital is looking to invest in.”

Wahby oversaw Bras N Things’ international expansion efforts, and built on like-for-like sales and earnings growth in the Australian market.

“The board would like to thank Simon Hickey for his significant contribution to the company since he joined,” TPG Capital head of Australia and New Zealand Joel Thickins said.

“Simon has led the business through a challenging trading environment, successfully navigated Greencross into private ownership and positioned Australasia’s largest integrated consumer facing pet care company for ongoing success.”

Wahby isn’t the only management change, with several more appointments made in the shift to private ownership.

Andrew McInerny will serve as the group’s chief operating officer of veterinary services, having formerly held the role of chief operating officer of chief operation officer of national home doctor services.

Scott Charters will re-join Greencross on June 3, taking up the role of chief operating officer of retail. Charters previously held management positions at Pet Barn and Greencross between 2011 and 2016.

The business also appointed a new chief people and culture officer in Chris Lamb, replacing the outgoing Vince Pollaers, as of July 1.

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