Australian apparel business Mosaic Brands has appointed a new chief financial officer and company secretary following the resignation of long-running CFO and company secretary Luke (Luka) Softa.
David Clarke has now taken on both leading positions effective this week.
“Luke had advised the board a few months ago of his intention to step down as CFO after nearly 10 years with Mosaic, but committed to remain in the role until a suitable replacement was found,” Mosaic chairman Richard Facioni said.
“This has allowed for a seamless transition with Luke formally resigning today (June 27) and David being appointed. Luke will remain with Mosaic for a period to provide an appropriate handover.”
Facioni then went on to say that Softa’s contribution to the group over the last decade has been immeasurable in both steering Mosaic through rapid growth and the challenges of COVID.
“The way he has approached this transition over the last few months reflects his broader commitment to getting the right outcomes for the group,” he said. “The board and the entire Mosaic team thank him for his substantial contribution and wish him success in his future endeavours.”
Incoming CFO David Clarke has held a range of senior executive roles in both listed and private companies in the retail, distribution, health and technology sectors. These include Hills Ltd as CEO, Corum Group Ltd as CFO and CEO, Nick Scali Ltd as CFO, and CFO of Diva.
David has also been the company secretary of Corum Group, Nick Scali and Diva.
David holds a Bachelor of Commerce in accounting and finance and a Graduate Diploma in marketing and strategy from the University of Otago (New Zealand). He is also a Chartered Accountant and AICD graduate.
“David has a broad and deep skillset in all financial and operational aspects of managing a large organisation and will bring a fresh perspective to the Group,” Facioni said.
“With Erica Berchtold’s appointment as CEO earlier this year, the group has transitioned to a new and experienced leadership team with a strong understanding of the retail sector to take us forward.”
The group also announced the retirement of Jackie Frank from the board of Mosaic, having served as a director for the past five years.
“I wish to express my gratitude to Jackie for her invaluable contribution to the board during her tenure,” Facioni said. “She has provided a unique perspective and has helped navigate the Group through very challenging times. I sincerely wish her the best for the future.”