Emma Hill appointed chair of Michael Hill International

The Chairman of Michael Hill International, Sir Michael Hill, today confirmed his retirement as Chairman on the 3rd November following the company’s annual shareholders’ meeting. Emma Hill, who is Deputy Chair of the company, will succeed him as Chair.

Sir Michael Hill, the company’s founder, has been Chair of MHI since the company listed on the NZX in 1987. The company has grown from its first store in Whangarei New Zealand to an international jewellery brand with 300 stores across Australia, New Zealand, Canada and the USA and revenues of AU$500m.

Sir Michael Hill will remain on the board as a non-executive director and as founder and majority owner will continue to be highly engaged and active in the business moving forward.

Emma Hill has worked for the company for 30 years starting as part time sales professional on the Whangarei shop floor at the age of 13. Emma established Michael Hill Canada in 2002 as the General Manager until 2007 when she joined the board of directors and was appointed Deputy Chair in 2011. Emma has a Bachelor of Commerce and an MBA with Distinction from Bond University.

Sir Michael welcomed Emma’s appointment as chair. “Emma has learnt jewellery retailing from the ground up, has worked across the breadth of the business, and across our international marketplaces. I’m thrilled that Emma has gained the full support of the Board for her appointment as Chair and proud to have a daughter who is incredibly passionate about the family business and has the expertise to chair the company over the next period of growth and development ”, says Sir Michael.

Commenting on her appointment as Chair, Emma said “she was pleased and excited to accept the role. Michael Hill International has a bright future. The last 30 years have been a great journey of learning, perseverance and growth. Our rich heritage married with our high quality people positions us well to move forward and achieve our ambitions. I have always admired my father and what he has created and feel privileged to be succeeding him as Chair."