Commercial Director - Woolworths NZ
Woolworths Group
We are Woolworths Group. 200,000+ bright minds, passionate hearts and unique perspectives connected by a shared Purpose – ‘to create better experiences together for a better tomorrow.’ It’s that Purpose that fuels our ambition to explore new ideas, make brave commitments and innovate better ways to meet the food and everyday needs of more than 24 million customers every week.
Shape the Future of Retail in New Zealand
Woolworths New Zealand is seeking a visionary commercial executive to lead our end to end commercial function - delivering $8B+ in annual sales and reimagining the grocery experience for millions of Kiwis.
As a key member of the Woolworths NZ Executive team, you will be accountable for defining and executing the commercial strategy, leading high-performing buying and replenishment teams, and building strategic supplier partnerships that drive sustainable, customer-led growth. You will shape a modern retail model that balances commercial performance, innovation and long-term value creation.
This is a rare opportunity to lead transformation at scale, backed by the data and digital capabilities of Woolworths Group. You’ll collaborate with local and Group leadership to design a future fit operating model and play a critical role in modernising New Zealand’s grocery landscape.
What You’ll Lead
Full leadership of NZ Commercial: Buying (Fresh, Grocery, Non-Food), Own Brand, Product Development, Replenishment, and Food Safety (~300 team members)
Development and execution of the commercial strategy, with Fresh as a strategic differentiator
Deep industry and supplier partnerships that drive mutual value and customer impact
Cross-functional commercial planning with Marketing, Digital, Supply Chain, and Store Operations
Commercial decision-making across ranging, inventory, cost, and capital efficiency
Future-focused innovation, anticipating trends and shaping omni-channel grocery retail
What You’ll Bring
Executive level commercial leadership in a complex, matrixed retail or consumer business of scale
Proven track record leading transformation, driving growth, and inspiring significant teams
Strong understanding of both physical and digital retail models
Commercial and financial acumen with Board-level credibility and stakeholder influence
A customer and data-centric mindset, with a disciplined approach to execution
A leadership style grounded in pace, simplicity, courage, and inclusion
Why Woolworths NZ
Live and work in Auckland - New Zealand’s most connected and vibrant city
Lead the commercial engine room of one of New Zealand’s most iconic brands
Be at the forefront of a high-impact, Group backed transformation journey
Influence at scale while staying close to your customers and community
Join a values-led culture committed to “Customer 1st, Team 1st” and growing together
Closing date for applications - 24th August