KMD Brands Adds Ex-Metcash and Warehouse Group CEO to Drive Transformation
KMD Brands strengthens board with global retail transformation leader
KMD Brands Limited (ASX/NZX: KMD) has appointed Ian Morrice as an independent non-executive director, effective 20 August 2026. The appointment follows the Board renewal process announced in May 2026.
The Board renewal programme launched in May 2026 included an external search for two new Non-Executive Directors, with Philip Bowman taking over as Chair from David Kirk as part of the same governance overhaul.
According to the Group, the addition supports execution of its “Next Level” strategy and its stated intent to evaluate opportunities to accelerate value generation for shareholders.
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Who is Ian Morrice
Ian Morrice brings extensive senior leadership experience across major retail and consumer businesses, with a particular focus on business transformation and shareholder value creation.
His credentials include:
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30+ years of senior leadership, business transformation and strategic advisory experience
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Sector experience across retail, consumer and wholesale
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Geographic exposure across New Zealand, Australia, the United States and the United Kingdom
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Former Group Chief Executive Officer of Metcash Limited
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Former Chief Executive Officer of The Warehouse Group
During his time leading these publicly listed businesses, Mr Morrice led business transformation initiatives, strengthened organisational capability and delivered shareholder value, according to the announcement.
Why this appointment matters for investors
Mr Morrice’s background spans retail operations, consumer markets, strategic growth, business transformation and capital allocation. These capabilities align with the requirements of a multi-brand portfolio of outdoor and lifestyle brands navigating a transformation phase.
The Next Level transformation has been showing measurable traction, with Kathmandu delivering 12.9% year-to-date sales growth and group EBITDA guidance pointing to a 105-182% year-on-year recovery as at early 2026.
The language used by the Chair is notable. Beyond routine governance, the appointment is positioned to support the Group as it continues to execute its strategy and evaluates further opportunities, signalling strategic intent.
Philip Bowman, Chair, KMD Brands
“We are delighted to welcome Ian to the KMD Brands Board. Ian has an outstanding track record leading and transforming major retail and consumer businesses across New Zealand and Australia. His deep operational and strategic expertise, together with his extensive governance experience and strong focus on shareholder value creation, will further strengthen the Board as we continue to execute our Next Level strategy and evaluate other opportunities to accelerate value generation for shareholders.”
Mr Morrice pointed to the potential he sees within the Group’s brand portfolio.
Ian Morrice, Non-Executive Director, KMD Brands
“KMD Brands owns a portfolio of highly regarded outdoor and lifestyle brands with significant potential. Throughout my career I have worked with retail and consumer businesses to improve performance, strengthen customer relevance and deliver sustainable growth. I look forward to contributing that experience as the Group delivers its Next Level strategy and develops opportunities to create long-term value for shareholders.”
Understanding the role of a non-executive director
A non-executive director sits on a company’s board but is not involved in the day-to-day running of the business. Instead, these directors provide strategic guidance and oversight of management.
The Board has determined that Mr Morrice is an independent director under Listing Rule 2.6.1.
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Appointment details and next steps
The key facts of the appointment are summarised below.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Appointee | Ian Morrice |
| Role | Independent Non-Executive Director |
| Effective date | 20 August 2026 |
| Board renewal announced | May 2026 |
| Independence determination | Independent under NZX Listing Rule 2.6.1 |
As required by the Group’s constitution and the NZX Listing Rules, Mr Morrice will hold office until the KMD Brands Annual Shareholders’ Meeting following the effective date of his appointment, at which time he will resign and stand for election.
The appointment adds retail and transformation expertise to the Board as the Group continues to execute its Next Level strategy.
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