Woolworths Group has announced an executive appointment for its supply chain business.
Annette Karantoni has been appointed Chief Supply Chain Officer and Managing Director of Primary Connect.
Currently Woolworths’ Director of B2C eCommerce, Karantoni will formally transition to the new role in February 2022 and also join the Woolworths Group Executive Committee.
“We’re delighted to appoint Annette to what is an important leadership role in our business,” said Woolworths Group CEO, Brad Banducci.
“Annette has done an outstanding job rapidly expanding our eCommerce business to meet the surge in demand we’ve seen for online shopping over the past 18 months.
“As we continue to expand our retail ecosystem, our supply chain network will be critical to both the foundations and future aspirations of our business.
“Our distribution centres are an essential link in the nation’s food and grocery supply chains and we’re continuing to invest in our network to improve range, service levels and resilience.
“Annette joins a very strong team at Primary Connect, who have demonstrated safety and service leadership throughout the pandemic. I look forward to seeing them build our next generation supply chain in the years ahead.”
Karantoni has spent the last 20 years working in a wide range of roles across Woolworths Group. Most recently, Annette has been the Director of B2C eCommerce – overseeing the significant acceleration in eCommerce demand over the last 18 months. Woolworths’ Australian Food eCommerce sales have more than doubled since the start of the pandemic.
Prior to working in eCommerce, Annette led the development and investment roadmap for the Woolworths supply chain network. Annette has also held senior roles in supermarkets buying, marketing and replenishment.
Woolworths Group’s current Acting Chief Supply Chain Officer, Chris Brooks, will remain in the role until February 2022.
WooliesX Managing Director, Amanda Bardwell will continue to maintain overall responsibility for Australian Food eCommerce.
In other news, refrigerated freight company Eades Transport has grown its national footprint thanks in part to its association with Primary Connect.