Kmart Group managing director, Ian Bailey has announced his intention to retire from the position in April 2025. Following his retirement, he will remain with Kmart Group to support a smooth leadership transition and serve as chairman of Anko Global.
Kmart Group chief financial officer, Aleksandra Spaseska has been appointed deputy managing director and will commence as managing director, effective 1 April 2025. Prior to her current role, she has held senior divisional and corporate executive positions with Wesfarmers.
Wesfarmers managing director, Rob Scott said, “I’m delighted to announce Alek’s appointment as incoming managing director of Kmart Group. Aleks brings deep knowledge of the Kmart and Target businesses together with strong commercial acumen. Working with Ian, Aleks has played an important role in key strategic initiatives within Kmart Group including the restructuring of Target and transformation activities in data and digital, global sourcing and supply chain.”
Scott went on to thank Bailey (above) for his contributions to Kmart Group and the broader Wesfarmers Group over many years.
“Ian has played an instrumental role in Kmart Group, driving the transformation of Kmart including the development of the unique sourcing model which has underpinned its success and created significant value for Wesfarmers shareholders,” he said.
“He has been a pivotal figure in Kmart’s group creating a world-class product development company and trusted brand. In recent years, Ian has led important strategic moves to take Anko into new markets and simplify and strengthen Target. He leaves the Kmart Group in excellent shape and has the gratitude and best wishes of the Wesfarmers board, leadership team and broader group.”
Commenting on his impending retirement, Bailey said: “It has been a privilege to lead the Kmart Group team as we transformed the business, making Kmart a great place to shop that is simple to run. I will leave the division in capable hands and look forward to supporting Aleks during the transition and beyond.”