About us
About us
SMG is Australia’s premier leadership development advisor. Since 1998, we’ve partnered with exceptional talent to elevate leadership skills and unlock organisational potential.
A seasoned CEO, Ian has led complex, large-scale retail and consumer goods groups, notably transforming Metcash Limited and The Warehouse Group. He brings extensive UK and Australasian experience, strategic expertise, and strong Board directorship knowledge.
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Expertise
20+ years experience
MBA Graduate
Certified Leadership Tutor
Certified Trainer in Interaction Management
Experience and background
Ian is a highly experienced Chief Executive leading large scale, listed groups with significant complexity in the highly competitive retail and consumer goods sectors. Until 2018, Ian was Group Chief Executive Officer of Metcash Limited, Australia’s leading Wholesaler, a diverse group with annual revenues in excess of A$14bn. Ian’s tenure as Group CEO of both Metcash and The Warehouse Group in New Zealand were defined by significant turnaround, business transformation and shareholder value creation.
Prior to moving to Australasia in 2004, Ian spent over 20 years in senior management roles in the UK in multiple retail sectors, financial services and leading different disciplines. He has led businesses through significant growth periods and is no stranger to adversity, disruption and turnarounds.
Prioritising the development of leadership talent and a strong customer viewpoint have been hallmarks of Ian’s approach and delivery. With proven strategic capability and execution focus, he is financially astute with a successful track record in M&A. An authentic, approachable person with strong values, Ian has demonstrated considerable drive, determination and resilience in his executive career.
He has significant Board experience as an Executive and Non-Executive Director on the Board of multiple listed and private companies in the UK and Australasia. Ian is currently Chair or an Advisor to the Board for a number of private companies in Australia and New Zealand.
Ian's approach
As a mentor with SMG, Ian’s passion is helping CEO’s and senior leaders create a growth agenda or navigate through challenging times, build team performance and their personal legacy. Ian also understands the importance of Board and Executive team dynamics and stakeholder management He also enjoys working with new or ‘elect’ CEO’s through the transition of stepping up.
Qualifications and memberships
- MBA from Cranfield University School of Management in the UK
- Avira CEO Program at INSEAD, Fontainebleau, France
- Certified Leadership Tutor, of the Industrial Society, (UK)
- Certified Trainer in Interaction Management – DDI Intl. (US).
Personal insights
Ian likes to spend time with his family and his interests include active sports, music and travel.
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