Woolworths Holdings has announced a sweeping overhaul of its executive leadership structure as newly appointed Group Chief Executive Officer Sam Ngumeni moves to accelerate growth, improve operational efficiency and strengthen accountability across the retail group.
The restructuring, which takes effect from July 1, 2026, introduces a simplified operating model designed to bring decision-making closer to business units, enabling faster execution and improved responsiveness in an increasingly competitive retail market. The changes follow an internal review that concluded the company’s organisational structure no longer aligned with its long-term growth ambitions.
Brandspur Brand News reports that the leadership shake-up includes several high-profile executive appointments and organisational changes aimed at reinforcing the retailer’s food, fashion, digital and operational capabilities. Chan Pillay has been promoted to Chief Executive Officer of Woolworths Food, while Manie Maritz will lead the Fashion, Beauty and Home division during the transition. Bradley Nitsckie has also been appointed Chief Operating Officer, assuming responsibility for supply chain, logistics, retail operations, stores, real estate development and the retailer’s Rest of Africa business.
Technology has been given greater strategic importance under the new structure with the creation of a Digital and Technology division. Christie Koorts will head the expanded unit, which combines information technology, online retail, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, data and analytics to support the company’s digital transformation agenda.
The retailer has also established a new Chief Marketing Officer role, expanding its marketing function to include sustainability and customer loyalty initiatives. Simphiwe Pato will serve as interim Chief Marketing Officer as Woolworths seeks to strengthen customer engagement and long-term brand value.
As part of the restructuring, Woolworths Ventures will no longer operate as a standalone innovation business. Its businesses, including WEdit and WCellar, will be integrated into the group’s core operating divisions, while Absolute Pets will continue to function independently. Food services operations such as WCafé and Now Now will move into the strategy portfolio.
The organisational changes also result in the departure of Chief Customer Officer Spencer Sonn and Fashion, Beauty and Home Chief Executive Officer Nuholt Huisamen, while senior executives overseeing finance, human resources, governance and Country Road Group will remain in their existing positions, ensuring continuity as the retailer embarks on its next phase of growth under Ngumeni’s leadership.
