Country Road boss quits amid tanking sales, internal culture issues
The boss of Country Road has quit a year after a scandal concerning the behaviour of executives and a steep downturn in sales.
Chief executive Raju Vuppalapati announced on Wednesday he would depart, following four years in charge.
Country Road is owned by South African conglomerate Woolworths Holdings, which also owns Mimco, Witchery, Politix and Trenery.
'It has been a privilege to lead our passionate team and iconic brands. I know that I am leaving Country Road Group well positioned to pursue its next chapter with compelling strategies, a strengthened culture and clear pathway to reignite profitable growth,' Mr Vuppalapati said in a statement.
Audio of a tense staff meeting in 2024 was obtained by The Australian, where Mr Vuppalapati was heckled by staff over sexual harassment and bullying allegations within the company.
Woolworths Holdings chief executive Roy Bagattini said Mr Vuppalapati was leaving the business in a 'foundationally much stronger position'.
'Raju and I have had ongoing discussions regarding his intent to leave CRG to pursue his personal interests,' he wrote.
'After thoughtful consideration, Raju has decided that now is the right time for him to do that.'
Mr Vuppalapati will leave the company at the end of August or 'until such time as the new CEO is appointed'.
Country Road called in a consulting firm to repair the company culture, two executives resigned and the Woolworths Holdings chief executive Roy Bagattini flew in from South Africa to the Melbourne offices to hear details of the allegations.
Woolworths Holdings sold department store David Jones in 2022 for $120m, but retained ownership of the Country Road Group.
The clothing business has been struggling to attract shoppers.
Country Road's operating profit fell 70 per cent in the second half of 2024, following a 66 per cent dip in the 2023/24 financial year.
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The boss of Country Road has quit a year after a scandal concerning the behaviour of executives and a steep downturn in sales. Chief executive Raju Vuppalapati announced on Wednesday he would depart, following four years in charge. Country Road is owned by South African conglomerate Woolworths Holdings, which also owns Mimco, Witchery, Politix and Trenery. 'It has been a privilege to lead our passionate team and iconic brands. I know that I am leaving Country Road Group well positioned to pursue its next chapter with compelling strategies, a strengthened culture and clear pathway to reignite profitable growth,' Mr Vuppalapati said in a statement. Audio of a tense staff meeting in 2024 was obtained by The Australian, where Mr Vuppalapati was heckled by staff over sexual harassment and bullying allegations within the company. Woolworths Holdings chief executive Roy Bagattini said Mr Vuppalapati was leaving the business in a 'foundationally much stronger position'. 'Raju and I have had ongoing discussions regarding his intent to leave CRG to pursue his personal interests,' he wrote. 'After thoughtful consideration, Raju has decided that now is the right time for him to do that.' Mr Vuppalapati will leave the company at the end of August or 'until such time as the new CEO is appointed'. Country Road called in a consulting firm to repair the company culture, two executives resigned and the Woolworths Holdings chief executive Roy Bagattini flew in from South Africa to the Melbourne offices to hear details of the allegations. Woolworths Holdings sold department store David Jones in 2022 for $120m, but retained ownership of the Country Road Group. The clothing business has been struggling to attract shoppers. Country Road's operating profit fell 70 per cent in the second half of 2024, following a 66 per cent dip in the 2023/24 financial year.
