EXECUTIVE APPOINTMENTS

SA-based Woolworths announces the appointment of new Group CEO

By our African Marketing Confederation News Team | 2026

Retailer makes an internal appointment as Sam Ngumeni takes the reins after almost 30 years with the business.

South African-based supermarket and retail giant Woolworths has announced the appointment of Sam Ngumeni, as the new Group CEO with effect from 1 June 2026.

He replaces Roy Bagattini, will be retiring from the company at the end of September 2026, following more than six years of service to the group.

Sam Ngumeni. Photo: Woolworths

The announcement was made in a statement released by the Board of Directors of Woolworths on 12 March 2026.

Ngumeni is an internal appointment, having spent almost 30 years with the group in various capacities. He is currently the Chief Executive Officer of the Food division. He previously held various senior executive positions across the group – including that of Group Chief Operating Officer, Group Director: HR & Transformation, and CEO of Woolworths Financial Services.

Strengthened its leadership in premium food retailing

“Since assuming the role of CEO of the Food division, Sam has successfully led the business’s continued above-market performance and further strengthened its leadership in premium food retailing in the country,” the board says in a statement released through the Johannesburg Stock Exchange.

“During his time as Group Chief Operating Officer, he had overall responsibility for the group’s supply chain and logistics, stores, information technology, online and digital, AI, data and analytics, real estate and the rest of Africa operations.

“During this time, Sam led many key strategic initiatives which delivered growth, efficiencies, reduced costs and improved levels of customer service. His breadth of experience across both the South African and Australian operations, his strong understanding of the group and its component parts, and deep operational expertise, positions him exceptionally well to lead the group in this next and important phase of its strategic journey.”

Bagattini will step down from his roles as Group CEO and Executive Director with effect from 31 May 2026. But he will work closely with Ngumeni on an effective handover during the transition period.

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