The Australian Association of Convenience Stores (AACS) has announced Nicola Richardson from Asahi Lifestyle Beverages as Supplier Director.
The role of the AACS Board members is to support the CEO in the development of strategic priorities for the convenience retail industry. AACS Board members ensure that both retailer and supplier voices from within the industry are clearly heard and incorporated into the AACS strategic plan.
Theo Foukkare, CEO of AACS, said he is very happy to have someone with Richardson’s experience and insights join the board to continue to refine the board’s strategies for future years.
“Nicola has a wealth of experience in both FMCG and beverages and I am confident that this will help us further develop our capability in these areas. I look forward to continue working with Nicola and all of the board in the years ahead.”
Richardson believes she brings a balanced perspective to the role having worked across a number of large and small supplier businesses as well as previously holding a number of board roles.
“I’m super excited about the appointment and am looking forward to supporting an industry that I love, but I know I have big shoes to fill.”
Voting was conducted via a blind election, with Richardson coming out on top ahead of four other strong nominees: Chris Burgon from Suntory Oceania, Iain Kirsch from Metcash, David Forde from Coca-Cola Europacific Partners, and Andrew Poore from Pacific Optics.
“The fact that five senior leaders have expressed interest in a single board role is a testament to the importance of the convenience retail industry to all the nominees, especially given their intent to use their experience to give back to the industry and help shape its future together,” said Foukkare.
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