Breville appoints tech expert as new CEO

Kitchen appliances maker Breville's long search for a new CEO is over, with senior LG executive Jim Clayton to take the job from July.

Kitchen appliance maker Breville has appointed a senior LG Electronics executive as its new boss after a seven month search.

Jim Clayton, who has held several senior roles at Korean electronics giant LG since 2009, replaces Jack Lord at Breville, who resigned in late August.

The company's chief financial officer Mervyn Cohen has been serving as interim chief executive, and will hand over to Mr Clayton on July 1.

Mr Lord resigned as Breville reported challenging global trade conditions and falling profit, and the company has since been focussed on improving efficiency and launching new products.

Chairman Steven Fisher said Mr Clayton would enhance this strategy.

"Jim is an experienced executive with a strong background in consumer products, technology and innovation," he said.

"He also brings with him a track record of success in international markets that are key to Breville's growth."

Prior to his time at LG, Mr Clayton worked with a Silicon Valley private equity firm investing in software technology companies, and at management consultancy firm McKinsey.

"I am excited by the opportunity to lead Breville, an iconic brand in Australia which has established a solid foundation for growth, both domestically and internationally," he said.

Mr Clayton will be paid an annual base salary of $800,000 plus short term bonuses of up to $560,000.

Breville shares gained three cents, or 0.4 per cent, to $7.51.


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Source: AAP


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