Spicers has appointed former Avery Dennison executive David Martin as its new CEO, replacing Andy Preece who announced he was leaving the country’s biggest paper merchant in March.

Martin will take up the role starting July 18 with a yearly salary of $674,575, making him one of the highest paid people in the print industry.

Outgoing CEO Preece revealed he would be leaving in March after only a year in the position. He took over following the European debacle which saw the company lose $300m following boardroom battles that lasted several years which engulfed the company.

Preece was responsible for executing a rebranding policy which saw the Paperlinx name go, and refocusing the business to Australia, New Zealand and the region. Preece’s tenure saw the company bounce back with a statutory profit after tax of $6.3m.

Martin has moved to Spicers after 23 years serving NYSE listed labels and packaging giant Avery Dennison, his most recent role being vice president and general manager for Asean, Australia and New Zealand.

Commenting on Martin’s appointment, Spicers chairman Robert Kaye says, “Martin is an executive of proven ability with the right fit of skills and experience to lead our businesses in Australia, New Zealand and Asia.

“Under his leadership we are confident that Spicers will be able to secure the revenue streams of its core commercial print segment, while developing its diversified segments, including identification of new markets and acquisition opportunities.”  

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