Sean Barrett. Credit: Sean Barrett
Woolworths Group has appointed Sean Barrett chief marketing officer after a global search to replace Andrew Hicks.
Barrett joins in January from US grocer Albertsons, where he led brand and marketing work across its 2,300-store network.
Woolworths said his background in customer data, performance marketing and Generative AI will shape its next phase of growth.
Jane Danziger, managing director of CustomerX, welcomed Barrett’s appointment.
"We are thrilled to bring a global retail leader of Sean's calibre to Woolworths Group,” she said.
“His track record at Albertsons in unifying brands around the customer and building a data-led marketing function will be critical as we continue to deliver differentiated value and convenience for our customers in an increasingly competitive market.
"I also want to extend our thanks to Michael Laxton who has done an excellent job stepping in as Interim CMO for the past five months and has guided the team through a significant period of change, while also setting our marketing function up for future success."
Barrett said he was thrilled to be joining the incredible team at Woolies.
“Woolworths Group has iconic brands and passionate team members that touch the lives of millions of people every single day,” he said.
“I look forward to partnering with the team to deliver differentiated value for customers and accelerate growth into the future.”
Denstu currently holds Woolworths' media account after extending its partnership with the supermarket in 2023, while creative agency Greenhouse, co-created by Woolworths with M&C Saatchi, has held the creative account since 2020.
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