Flybuys has appointed The Iconic chief operating officer, Anna Lee, as its new chief executive officer, effective 13 June 2022.
Lee succeeds John Merakovsky who will resign in April after three years in the role. Flybuys chief financial officer, Lana Hudson will become interim CEO ahead of Lee’s commencement.
Lee brings extensive leadership experience in online retail and digital environments to Flybuys. Having led teams across multiple functions including finance, supply chain, people and culture, operations and technology change programs, Lee has been with The Iconic since 2014 as chief financial officer, acting CEO and her current role as chief operating officer.
Prior to The Iconic, she held leadership positions at the National Online Retailers Association, Groupon and PwC.
Commenting on her appointment, Lee said, “I am thrilled and privileged to be joining the Flybuys team and am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead. Flybuys has been Australia’s favourite loyalty program for close to 30 years which is testament to its incredible team and innovative technology. I’m looking forward to working with the team to deliver the very best experience for both customers and partners alike.”
Flybuys chairman and Coles Group CEO, Steve Cain said, “On behalf of our members, partners and team, I would like to thank John for his contribution to Flybuys, ensuring it has remained Australia’s favourite loyalty program for many years. Together, Flybuys and Coles continues to add value to members on their everyday shop through rewards, dollars off their weekly shop, and our loyalty offers.”
He added: “With the recent addition of new partners Bunnings and Officeworks, Flybuys is entering a new era where we can provide more relevant and useful benefits to our members than ever before.
“We look forward to welcoming Anna to the team. She has exceptional ecommerce, operations and financial experience in high growth retail environments and a wealth of deep digital experience across omnichannel portfolios.”
John Merakovskysaid: “It’s been an honour to lead Australia’s favourite loyalty program; Flybuys has an exciting growth trajectory and I’m pleased to be handing the reigns to a leader of Anna’s calibre.”