Kalahari.net CEO jumps ship to Loot

In a move that is set to alter the local online landscape, e-tailer Loot.co.za announced that former Kalahari.net CEO, Gary Hadfield, joins its ranks today as CEO. Michael van Rooyen, founder of Loot.co.za, will continue to play an active role as Managing Director.

Hadfield was CEO of Kalahari.net from 2005-2010, prior to which he held a number of senior positions following its official launch in 2000.

According to Hadfield, the move to Loot.co.za comes at a time when he is ready for a new challenge and when the online retailer is positioning itself for further growth and expansion.

“Since its inception in 2003, Loot.co.za has recorded significant year-on-year growth and the company is well positioned in the online retail space. I look forward to working with the Loot team to take the e-tailer to the next level,‚ Hadfield said.

Van Rooyen added that Loot will benefit from a very strong management team now that Hadfield’s retail and management skills will be combined with his extensive IT and engineering skills. ‚A strong, competent management team with a combination of skills is crucial for the plans that we have with Loot. A number of local retailers continue to increase their investments in the online arena and we expect to see some major changes in this landscape in the next 12 months. “”Gary is a pioneer in the local e-commerce realm and his experience, knowledge and insights are what we need to take Loot to the next level,‚ Van Rooyen said.

Hadfield concluded that with Loot’s uncompromising customer centric approach and focus, he is excited about being part of a company that has been built on word-of-mouth. He is committed to making a significant contribution to Loot’s growth and to continue contributing to online retail growth in South Africa.

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