Trade Me has appointed Kul Singh Kargil as Chief Executive Officer, with Anders Skoe to step down at the end of September.
The change follows seven years in the top job for Skoe, who is leaving the New Zealand online marketplace to return to Europe.
Chair Owen Wilson said Kargil would succeed Skoe after serving as Chief Commercial and Marketing Officer at REA Group, where he oversaw the company's commercial divisions as well as audience, brand, customer experience and marketing.
Skoe's departure marks the end of a tenure in which he led Trade Me through a period of strategic change across its core New Zealand operations. Wilson said he had helped strengthen the business during that time.
"On behalf of the Board, I want to extend our deepest gratitude to Anders for his outstanding leadership and dedication over the years. He leaves Trade Me in a strong position for future success," said Owen Wilson, Chair, Trade Me.
Skoe said the decision to leave had been difficult, but that he believed the company was well placed for the handover.
"It has been a privilege to lead Trade Me and work alongside such a talented and passionate team. I am immensely proud of everything we accomplished together to serve our customers and our community. The company is in a strong position, and I am delighted to hand the baton to Kul. I look forward to seeing where he takes Trade Me next," said Anders Skoe, Chief Executive Officer, Trade Me.
New Chief
Kargil joins from REA Group, one of Australasia's largest digital property businesses, where he held a senior commercial and marketing role. Earlier in his career, he held leadership positions across strategy, marketing, sales and brand in financial services at GE Capital and in healthcare at GlaxoSmithKline.
He will join Trade Me in mid-September.
Wilson said the board saw Kargil as the right successor to lead the next stage of the business.
"We are thrilled to welcome Kul Singh Kargil as our new CEO. Kul brings a wealth of executive experience, deep operational expertise, and a proven track record delivering business growth. The Board is confident that his vision and customer-centric approach make him the ideal person to lead the company," said Wilson.
Return to New Zealand
Kargil said the move would also mark a return to New Zealand.
"Trade Me has been part of the fabric of Aotearoa for more than two decades, and I feel incredibly privileged to be given the opportunity to lead this incredible business into its next era," said Kargil.
Trade Me has held a prominent position in New Zealand's digital market for more than 20 years, with operations spanning online classifieds, property, motors and general marketplace listings.
Skoe will leave after handing over the role, ending a seven-year period as one of the most visible leaders in New Zealand's technology and online commerce sector. Wilson said the company was entering the transition from a position of strength.