Coles Liquor announced that Michael Courtney was promoted to the new role of Chief Executive Coles Liquor Group, replacing Darren Blackhurst who is heading back to the UK to be with his family.

Leah Weckert, Chief Executive Officer Coles Group said “Michael has successfully led our Coles Express business for over four years, delivering a winning strategy in the petrol and convenience market and overseeing a successful transition to Viva Energy. Michael has spent the past six months immersing himself in the eCommerce business and transforming our customer offer. Michael is exceptionally well placed to lead Liquor in delivering the strategy and transformation plans underway. He is committed to building a strong culture and team who are passionate about being local drinks specialists.”

Michael Courtney, incoming Chief Executive Coles Liquor Group said “I’m really excited to be taking the role because providing an exceptional drinks experience for customers is key to Coles Goup’s strategy.

We’ve got three really strong brands in the liquor business being Liquorland, First Choice Liquor Market and Vintage Cellars which cater to a variety of customer missions and give us the opportunity to really differentiate in the market.

Darren Blackhurst, in his three years in the business, set forward a strategy that’s gained really positive momentum which I’m looking forward to building on and working with the team and our suppliers to be the very best drinks retailer in Australia.”