e&s director Rob Sinclair has announced the unexpected appointment of a new executive to work in the kitchen, laundry and bathroom specialist retailer.
This is the first major executive appointment to the e&s business since JB Hi-Fi purchased a majority shareholding in the retailer in August last year.
Ottaway will report into e&s Operations Director Adam White and is a direct replacement for Mat Steenvoorden who left the business two months ago. Existing category managers and the buying team within the e&s business will report into Ottaway once he commences in the new role.
Sinclair issued a statement outlining the new appointment on Friday 20 June.
“We are delighted to announce the appointment of Chris Ottaway as General Manager, Merchandising at e&s, effective 30 June 2025,” Sinclair said.
“Chris brings with him a wealth of experience and a proven track record in both retail and wholesale environments. Over a career spanning more than two decades, Chris has held senior leadership roles across organisations including Telegram Co (AU&NZ), Spotlight Retail Group, BP Australia, Coles Group, where he consistently delivered strong commercial results and built high-performing teams.”
“Chris is known for his customer-first mindset and has a deep connection to the retail floor, ensuring that merchandising strategies not only reflect consumer needs but also drive commercial success.”
“His leadership approach focuses on building collaborative supplier partnerships, fostering innovation, and delivering mutually beneficial outcomes across the value chain. “In his most recent role as Head of Wholesale for Telegram Co, Chris led a multi-brand portfolio and a national team, delivering double-digit growth and launching several strategic retail initiatives across diverse channels. He also brings extensive experience in brand development, private label strategy, and joint business planning; skills that will further strengthen our merchandising capabilities and supplier partnerships at e&s.”
“Chris is a strong cultural fit for our business, bringing with him a passion for continuous improvement, a collaborative spirit, and a dedication to driving sustainable growth. We are confident that his leadership will further enhance our shared success and strengthen our commercial partnerships. “Please join us in welcoming Chris to e&s. We look forward to continuing our work together and appreciate your ongoing support as we embark on this next chapter.”
e&s recently opened a new store at Epping in the northern suburbs of Melbourne. This is first new e&s store opened under JB Hi-Fi ownership and Appliance Retailer was there for the ribbon cutting and the first look inside the store.
In an exclusive interview with Appliance Retailer, JB Hi-Fi CEO Terry Smart has also re-confirmed the focus for the e&s brand will remain in the Victorian market for the short term.
e&s is planning to open a 12th store in 2026, before opening its newly-built store on the Mornington Peninsula in 2027.