Super Retail Group, owner of Supercheap Auto, BCF, Macpac and rebel, has announced the immediate resignation of Benjamin Ward as managing director of Supercheap Auto. Ben McConnell, currently general manager of retail operations at Supercheap Auto, has been appointed interim managing director while the company conducts an executive search for Ward’s successor.
Group managing director and CEO Paul Bradshaw thanked Ward for his tenure, saying he appreciated “his contribution to the Group” and wished him well “as he pursues future opportunities.”
Super Retail shares were down 1% to $15.84 following the announcement.
Ward, who has led Supercheap Auto since 2019, is set to join Endeavour Group, where he will head its Dan Murphy’s liquor chain from early next year. His departure comes within days of Bradshaw, previously the Managing Director of BCF, taking over as Group CEO on November 1.
Bradshaw’s appointment followed the board’s decision to remove former CEO Anthony Heraghty over disclosures related to an alleged affair.
Super Retail Group said McConnell will lead Supercheap Auto through the transition period while it considers both internal and external candidates for the permanent role.