Flybuys appoints The Iconic executive as new CEO

Flybuys has hired the chief operating officer of pure-play retailer The Iconic, Anna Lee, as its new CEO following the resignation of John Merakovsky.

Lee will bring extensive experience in retail and finance to the role, having held leadership positions at the National Online Retailers Association, Groupon and PricewaterhouseCoopers prior to her seven-year stint at The Iconic.

During her time at the online retailer she worked in roles such as chief financial officer and acting CEO until she was appointed as COO in May 2017.

"I am thrilled and privileged to be joining the Flybuys team and am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead,” Lee said.

“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."

One of the nation’s largest loyalty schemes, Flybuys’ allows its members to collect points and rewards from 22 retail partners such as Coles, Bunnings, Kmart, Officeworks and Target.

FlyBuys’ chief financial officer Lana Hudson will become interim CEO when Merakovsky leaves in April, and will hold the position until Lee begins her tenure on 13 June.

“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,” Flybuys chairman and Coles CEO Steven Chain said.

“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 very much look forward to welcoming Anna to the team. She has exceptional e-commerce, operations and financial experience in high growth retail environments and a wealth of deep digital experience across omnichannel portfolios. Anna will ensure our millions of members are at the heart of Flybuys’ business proposition.”