DuluxGroup appoints new Chairman

Chairman Peter Kirby will retire from the Board, effective 30 June 2018.

He will be succeeded by current DuluxGroup Non-Executive Director, Graeme Liebelt.

Peter became the inaugural Chairman of DuluxGroup in July 2010 when DuluxGroup demerged from Orica Limited.

He has overseen a period of significant growth, during which the company has entered the S&P ASX100 index, tripled its market capitalisation and, most recently, successfully commissioned its new Dulux paint factory in Melbourne.

"I am immensely proud of the time I have spent with this company over my career, both as an executive and former Managing Director in the 80s and 90s, and over the last eight years as DuluxGroup’s inaugural Chairman.

"I’ve enjoyed the challenge and opportunity tremendously.

"For me, it’s the right time to retire and I look forward to seeing this company go from strength to strength.

"I also am very confident that Graeme brings the right skills and experience to ensure a seamless transition,” Mr Kirby said.

Graeme joined the DuluxGroup Board in June 2016.

He is Chairman of Amcor Ltd, Director of ANZ Banking Group Limited and Director of the Australian Foundation Investment Company Ltd.

Graeme has significant board experience as well as more than 30 years’ experience in senior leadership roles including six years as CEO of Orica Limited.

Graeme, like Peter, also brings paint industry experience, having previously held senior roles at DuluxGroup between 1989 and 1997, including as Managing Director from 1995 until 1997.

"It is an honour to assume the role of Chairman succeeding Peter Kirby, who has played an integral role in DuluxGroup’s growth and success over the past eight years.

"I look forward to the opportunity to steer the company through its next phase of growth and value generation for all stakeholders,” said Mr Liebelt.