Australian wholesaler Metcash has indicated that Ian Morrice will take the reigns as CEO, replacing Andrew Reitzer who plans to retire at the end of June.

Morrice, who is currently a Metcash director, has previously served as CEO of New Zealand’s Warehouse Group as well as holding management positions at UK retailers such as Kingfisher Group and Dixsons.

“Ian knows what it’s like to work in a fiercely competitive environment. He was schooled in the tough UK retail sector… and has an intimate working knowledge of the Australian market,” Metcash chairman Peter Barnes commented.

Morrice suggested that his priority as CEO would be the “continued support” of independent retailers in Australia.