Endeavour Group (EG) has announced that its Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director Steve Donohue will be stepping down from his role once a replacement has been found.
After 30 years with the business including more than six years as CEO, and following the successful demerger of Endeavour from Woolworths Group Limited in 2021, Mr Donohue and the Board have determined now is the right time for a new leader to take the Group into its next phase of growth.
EG Chairman Ari Mervis said: “Steve is a rare CEO who rose from the shop floor to the top job, and he will leave behind a significant legacy with Endeavour Group.
“His passion and drive is known throughout the company as well as the broader industry.
“Steve has a track record of success through a range of roles, and I wish to pay special tribute to his leadership of the organisation and his passionate commitment to making Endeavour a success.
“While Steve is remaining with the business as the CEO search progresses, on behalf of the Board I would like to extend my sincere thanks to him for his long service and commitment to Endeavour over many years.”
Donohue’s career with Endeavour began in 1994 as a summer casual at Dan Murphy’s in Alphington, from there he rose quickly through the ranks taking on a range of leadership roles across Endeavour and the Woolworths Group.
Donohue said: “Six years after we created Endeavour Group and with the strategy and culture well established as an independent company, now is the right time for me to pass the baton on to the next leader.
“It has been an immense privilege to lead this company and to have been a part of this business for three decades.
“I take great pride in the achievements of the company during my time as CEO and thank everyone at Woolworths and Endeavour who has supported me over many years. Together, we have created the leading company for social occasions, with unrivalled brands and hospitality venues.”
Endeavour’s Board is engaging external advisors to help identify a new CEO and Donohue will remain with the business to assist with an orderly transition.
