Chief Executive Officer

About Foodstuffs North Island Limited and Liquorland

Liquorland operates as a nationally recognised retail brand with over 175 stores serving communities across New Zealand. The business combines a strong national brand presence with the dynamic entrepreneurial spirit of local franchise owners. The organisation is committed to delivering excellent customer experiences while promoting franchisee success and strengthening Liquorland's standing as New Zealand's most trusted and responsible liquor retailer.

Role Overview

This CEO role extends beyond traditional leadership, involving oversight of a multifaceted organization that encompasses retail operations, franchise management, category and merchandise strategy, customer relations, supplier partnerships, and commercial performance. The Chief Executive Officer will craft and drive the strategic path and growth of Liquorland, collaborating with franchisees, suppliers, industry partners, and regulators to enhance the customer offering and achieve sustainable business success. Effective leadership in this role depends less on hierarchy and more on the ability to build trust, foster alignment, influence stakeholders, and unite diverse groups around a shared vision while balancing commercial ambition with community responsibility.

Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate is a seasoned commercial leader with extensive experience managing complex operations at scale. Candidates with backgrounds as CEOs, Managing Directors, General Managers, or senior enterprise executives who have demonstrated success in delivering measurable results, developing high-performing teams, and managing complexity are encouraged to apply. A commercial mindset paired with strong people skills and owner-level accountability is essential, including prudent financial stewardship, relationship-building, and leading with credibility and trust.

Key Qualifications and Experience

• Proven track record of success in retail, FMCG, liquor, franchise, or customer-oriented business environments.
• Robust commercial acumen with strong Profit & Loss management capabilities.
• In-depth experience in category management, merchandise planning, and customer strategy.
• Successful history of building and maintaining productive supplier and strategic partnerships.
• Aptitude for navigating complex stakeholder landscapes and uniting diverse groups behind common objectives.
• Courage to challenge existing norms, make impactful decisions, and lead transformative change.
• Commitment to nurturing high-performing teams and cultivating future leaders.

Diversity & Inclusion Commitment

Foodstuffs North Island Limited celebrates diversity and inclusive practices. The company encourages applicants from all backgrounds, including those with disabilities, additional health or mental health needs, and neurodiverse individuals. Accessibility support is available throughout the recruitment process to ensure equitable access.

Additional Information

Accessibility accommodations may be provided upon request to facilitate fair participation in the hiring process. The recruitment process may involve the use of artificial intelligence tools to review applications and support decision making; however, human judgment remains the final determinant in hiring decisions. The closing date for applications is Monday, 20th July.