Nursery retailer Baby Bunting Group has signed on Mark Teperson as the incoming MD and CEO, effective October 2, 2023.
Teperson is the current chief strategy and product officer at Afterpay, and the former chief digital officer of Australian footwear retailer Accent Group.
He has more than 20 years experience across retail and fintech, starting his career at The Athletes Foot where he then went on to become GM of the children’s shoe brand Shoes & Sox at age 22.
Teperson has experience across strategy, store design and operations, product development, merchandise, planning, payments, growth marketing, loyalty, and omni-channel retail.
He also co-founded omni-channel retailer Shoe Superstore in 2005 which was acquired by Accent Group in 2009.
“In February 2023, we announced details of our leadership succession planning, and I am now very pleased to announce and welcome Mark Teperson as the next Managing Director & CEO of Baby Bunting," Baby Bunting Chair Melanie Wilson said.
"Mark brings deep omni-channel retail experience, passion for the consumer and relentless pursuits of excellence. He is a passionate retailer who has delivered significant growth and innovation in previous roles.
"The Board and I look forward to working closely with him as we drive the next phase of growth for Baby Bunting."
Wilson went on to acknowledge the current CEO and MD Matt Spencer for his leadership and commitment to ensuring a smooth handover.
“The organisation he has helped to build and the impact he has had on the Company’s strategy, structure and operations leave Baby Bunting well placed for continued success.”
Spencer will step down from his role with effect on June 2, 2023. He will continue to be an employee until December 31, when he will be available to provide ongoing assistance and guidance across transitional matters.
Teperson welcomed the new role, saying the company has achieved a lot and has set solid foundations for its future.
"As I lead the business into its next phase of growth, I am fuelled by excitement," Teperson said. "Returning to the world of retail, I am laser-focused on delivering unparalleled experiences and products and services that will truly captivate our customers.
"Being part of an organisation with a strong purpose and a leading omni-channel offering is a tremendous privilege. Together, we will create a world-class consumer experience making a lasting impression in the industry."
In the meantime, Baby Bunting CFO Darin Hoekman has been appointed interim CEO effective from June 2, 2023.
He will return to his role as CFO upon Mark Teperson commencing on October 2.