CEO’s message

By now the news of my retirement may have already reached you. If not, let me take this opportunity to let you know that I’ll be stepping down as Capricorn’s Group CEO this December.

After 18 years with the company, including five as Group CEO, I’ve made the difficult decision to retire. There was a lot of deliberation with my family over the summer holidays.

On one level, it’s a difficult time to leave: Capricorn is in the best shape of its 50-year history, the industry is facing defining challenges, and we’ve got so many great initiatives in the pipeline that I’m keen to see through to completion.

Also, quite simply, Capricorn has just been a great place to work. I have loved every minute of it. You don’t stay somewhere 18 years unless that’s the case! I’m very proud of what we’ve achieved and the positive impact we’ve been able to have on Members’ businesses over that time.

On another level, getting older has snuck up on me (and that definitely sucks). While there’s never a good time to leave, when I think back to my old footy days, I’m reminded that sometimes you just know when it’s time to hang up your boots.

In doing so, I am very pleased and reassured to know that Capricorn will be in very safe and able hands, with Brad Gannon stepping into the Group CEO role.

I’ve worked closely with Brad for many years in his role as CEO Automotive and I know he’s looking forward to continuing to deliver an amazing experience for our Members, Preferred Suppliers and the Capricorn community. I wish him all the best.

I’ve announced my departure now because I wanted to be transparent about the decision. Leaving at the end of the calendar year means I can work with the Board and Brad to ensure a smooth transition and a successful handover.

It also gives me the rest of the year to get out and see as many of you as possible. I’ve always loved spending time with Members. It was wonderful to see so many of you in Hawaii last month for our convention. It was such a great atmosphere—a good mix of social and business, and a great chance for everyone to share stories and talk about what’s working and what’s not. We really are stronger when we all work together.

Finally, I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Board, my Executive Leadership Team, and all our employees, who have done a fantastic job in supporting me, our Members, and the broader Capricorn community.

I’ve spent 38 years in this industry. It has been an honour and a privilege to spend the second half of my career serving Capricorn’s Members. So, thank you.

David Fraser

Group CEO