Kathmandu chief Xavier Simonet resigns to lead Austrade

Kathmandu chief executive Xavier Simonet has been announced as the new CEO of Austrade, the Australian Trade and Investment Commission.

The new role comes after Simonet’s resignation from Kathmandu Holdings, where he worked for five and half years, most recently as the company’s Group CEO and Managing Director.

Simonet has also previously been the CEO of Radley London and International Director of Seafolly Group, as well as worked 11 years for luxury goods giant LVMH (Louis Vuitton Moet Hennessy) in Europe, Asia and Australia.

In a statement, Trade Minister Simon Birmingham said Simonet brings a distinguished career in brand sales and marketing, international market development and acquisitions, and he is confident the Kathmandu chief’s extensive knowledge and wide international experience will serve Australian businesses well.

“Mr Simonet’s will bring proven and strong leadership to Austrade, as it plays its part in helping Australian businesses to navigate through and bounce back from this significant period of economic and trade uncertainty,” Minister Birmingham said.

He also stressed that the appointment of the Kathmandu chief comes at a time when Austrade had a critical role to play in helping Australian businesses to maintain global supply chains, export to more markets, help Aussie tourism and education sectors to recover while also attracting game-changing investment.

“As our key agency for promoting Australian trade, investment and education to the world, and developing tourism policy, Austrade’s role in providing advice and support to Australian businesses has never been more important, as they continue to face enormous challenges,” Minister Birmingham said.

Minister Birmingham also thanked Austrade Acting CEO Tim Beresford for his strong and effective leadership of Austrade during challenging times, as well as looking forward to his continued contribution as Deputy CEO. He also expressed his gratitude for the contribution of former CEO Dr Stephanie Fahey.

In another statement, Kathmandu Holdings Chariman David Kirk wishes Simonet well on his new undertaking in the Australian public service.

“We are disappointed to lose Xavier, but understand his desire to take up a senior role in the Australian Public Service, for which he is very well credentialled. We wish him well in the important work he will undertake. Xavier has led Kathmandu Holdings through a period of growth and repositioning of the company,” Kirk said.

In the same statement, Simonet commented on his time at Kathmandu Holdings.

“I have had an awesome time at Kathmandu Holdings, where I have spent the last five immensely exciting years. The Group has great brands, passionate teams and strong values. I am very grateful to our teams, to the Board of Directors, to our shareholders and to my Chairman, David Kirk, for their support,” he said.

Simonet will remain with the company through his six-month notice period or until the Board decides to release him.

Born and raised in France, Simonet is now living with his family in Australia.