Woolworths has bolstered its board with two new recruits as the retail giant works to strengthen its ailing operations.
The Sydney-based company has appointed former NBN chairman Siobhan McKenna to its board as a non-executive director following the resignation of Jetstar chief executive Jayne Hrdlicka after five-and-a-half years' service.
Woolworths also confirmed the board appointment of former Telstra executive Holly Kramer as a non-executive director as previously announced on November 17.
Chairman Gordon Cairns said the new board members were experienced and accomplished in their areas of business.
"Their expertise will be invaluable to us, particularly during this challenging time," Mr Cairns said in a statement on Monday.
Ms McKenna is a non-executive director of Ten Network, Nova Entertainment, the Australian Ballet, and is a Trustee of the MCG Trust. She is also a former commissioner of the Australian Productivity Commission, a former chairman and board member of NBN Co, and a former partner of McKinsey & Company.
Ms Kramer is a non-executive director of Nine Entertainment, Australia Post and AMP. She previously was chief executive of clothing retailer Best & Less and group managing director/chief of marketing at Telstra.
Ms Hrdlicka has resigned because the demands of the Woolworths board at this time were too significant in balance with her commitments as the Jetstar boss and member of the Qantas group executive committee, Mr Cairns said. Her departure is effective immediately.
Woolworths' supermarket chain is struggling amid stiff competition from staunch rival Coles and budget grocery chain Aldi.
In January, Woolworths said it will either sell or wind up its struggling home improvement arm, which includes the Masters, and Home Timber & Hardware chains following an extensive review.
