Chris Challinor
Long Bay
Summary
Dynamic and results-driven management professional with 40 years of extensive experience in export management, national sales team leadership, and general management. Proven track record in business planning, market opportunity identification, and new product development. Expertise in supply chain management, international trade, and building strong retail partnerships in the homeware textiles industry.
Overview
36
36
years of professional experience
Work History
Business Unit Manager
Bambury (NZ) Ltd
01.2008 - 01.2024
- Autonomous management of NZ business unit for 16 years responsible for gross revenue, margin & net profit reporting to Australian MD
- Engaged with key retail partners to enhance trading relationships and drive sales growth
- Negotiated terms of trade, product development and supply chain management.
General Manager
Maurice Kain Ltd (Basford Group)
01.2007 - 01.2008
- Managed general management functions, reporting directly to the Managing Director and Board
- Involved in the transition & integration from New Zealand to Australian ownership
- Responsible for buying & managing programs for Maurice Kain & Seekers Brands
- Managed retail terms of trade, including negotiation of rebates, discounts, and settlement terms.
National Sales Manager, Export Business Manager
Moller Textiles Ltd
01.1988 - 01.2007
- Led export business management for a vertical manufacturer with 165 staff, reporting directly to the Managing Director
- Restructured supply model from Australian wholesalers to direct supply of chain stores, improving efficiency and profitability
- Developed and executed promotional strategies and product positioning for key retail chains.
Education
High School Diploma -
King College
Auckland12.1976
Skills
- Business Unit Management
- Export Management
- National Sales Team Leadership
- General Management
- Retail Chain Relationship Management
- Business Planning & Strategy
- New Product Development
- Supply Chain Management
- Freight Management
- International Trade Compliance
- Knowledge of NZ/Australia Closer Economic Relationship (CER)
- Tariff and Duty interpretation for import and export
Special Achievements
- Successfully negotiated and managed sales contracts with major retailers such as Woolworths, Kmart, Lincraft & Spotlight in Australia.
- Achieved substantial sales revenue growth under a total category management plan with Big W (Australia).
- Consistently exceeding budget sales and contribution margins.
- Engaged and developed retail trading relationships with Farmers Trading Company, Harvey Norman, and Bed Bath & Beyond in New Zealand.
References
On request.
Timeline
Business Unit Manager
Bambury (NZ) Ltd
01.2008 - 01.2024
General Manager
Maurice Kain Ltd (Basford Group)
01.2007 - 01.2008
National Sales Manager, Export Business Manager
Moller Textiles Ltd
01.1988 - 01.2007
High School Diploma -
King College
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