McPherson’s has announced the appointment of Brett Charlton as the company’s new MD and CEO, effective from August 1st.

One of Australia’s leading suppliers of health wellness and beauty products with operations in New Zealand and Asia, McPherson’s has faced a series of challenges over the past few years. In 2021, the lucrative daigou market slumped and the company had to fend off two takeover bids from Kin Group subsidiary Gallin and Arrotex, Australia’s largest generic pharmaceutical and private label OTC medicines company.

But, last year, Chemist Warehouse took a 9.9 per cent stake in the company as part of a major two-way distribution and supply deal to help fuel further growth. 

McPherson’s portfolio needs little introduction for pharmacy and mass retailers and consumers. With a diversified stable of leading owned brands, including Manicare nail products, Lady Jayne hair brushes and accessories, Dr LeWinn’s skincare, Swisspers cleansing products, A’kin haircare, Fusion Health, Oriental Botanicals, Moosehead men’s hair care and Maseur footwear and accessories, the company also manages brands for agency partners.

Charlton has 25 years of marketing and branding expertise, combined with strong manufacturing and supply chain experience backed by a customer, consumer, digital and data-first orientation. Most recently, he has been an advisor to consumer goods companies on strategic growth plans. But his CV executive appointments include Chief Skincare Officer of Laser Clinics Australia and Managing Director of Sanofi Consumer Healthcare and Tip Top Ice Cream.

We are delighted to have Brett join McPherson’s as CEO, said Ari Mervis, Chairman of McPherson’s. “Brett’s career highlights include significant turnaround experience, where he led both top and bottom-line growth in manufacturing and consumer-based organisations. His leadership acumen and proven track record for driving performance will greatly assist the company”.

I am excited to be joining this iconic, 160 year-old company and look forward to working with the board and leadership to deliver on the great potential that the portfolio of brands offers, added Charlton. “McPherson’s is a company with exceptional brands and customer relationships built with a sincere desire to create confident, healthy and sustainable lifestyles, so I look forward to leading the company and its talented team through the next exciting phase of its journey”.

Ari Mervis and Alison Cook will continue in their positions as executive chairman and COO until Charlton joins the company before reverting to their respective roles as non-executive chairman and non-executive director.

Read the current issue of our digital magazine below:

Leave a comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *