Woolworths appoints new chief executive

Steve Johnson has been appointed chief executive of Woolworths

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Woolworths has appointed former Focus DIY chief executive Steve Johnson as its new chief executive.

Johnson, who was chief executive at Focus DIY until July 2007, will take up the post of Woolworths chief executive on September 1, replacing Trevor Bish-Jones.

Johnson has previously held roles at Asda and is currently non-executive chairman of logistics business, the Unipart Group.

Woolworths chairman Richard North said: "We are delighted that Steve will be joining Woolworths. With his strong background in both retail and consultancy, together with his particular experience in achieving a turnaround at Focus, he brings the strategic and operational skills that the group needs to help it move to the next stage of its development."

North added: "The board of Woolworths is confident that Steve will add tremendous value leading our strong operational management teams in both the retail and distribution businesses.  We are sure that he has a great deal to contribute to the recovery and growth of the Woolworths Group."

Johnson said: "I am very excited to be joining the group. Woolworths is a well-loved high street brand operating in attractive markets, while the EUK and 2 Entertain businesses have grown to hold market-leading position in their respective markets. Along with the rest of the Woolworths team, I will be focused on value creation for all stakeholders as we seek to move the group forward."