Greg Smith

CEO Barkers and Max Group - Executive Director

New Zealand

About

I believe if you recruit great people, give them clear responsibility and accountability, they will win.

Experience

  • Barkers Men's Clothing (1 yr 2 mos)
    • Chief Executive Officer
      Jan 2026 - Present · 7 mos

    • Executive Director
      Jan 2026 - Present · 7 mos

      Executive director of iconic New Zealand clothing brands; Barkers and Max.

    • Non Executive Director
      Jun 2025 - Jan 2026 · 8 mos

      Provide support to CEO and executive team to achieve company goals. Complete strategic review of the Barkers and Max apparel business. Plan and facilitate Strategic 3-year workshop plan with Executive team.

  • Board Trustee at New Zealand College of Chiropractic
    Feb 2024 - Present · 2 yrs 6 mos

    The New Zealand College of Chiropractic is an Internationally acclaimed training institution. I’m proud to serve the students and help create an environment that inspires them to help change the world, naturally. Member of Audit sub-committee.

  • Chief Executive Officer at Bremworth
    Jul 2021 - Apr 2025 · 3 yrs 10 mos

    The Bremworth purpose was to “Find a more sustainable way” I was hired to execute the bold, board led all wool strategy. With a background in natural fibres through my time at icebreaker I couldn’t be more excited to help support our strong wool farmers and bring natural wool flooring to more homes in New Zealand, Australia and the USA. We had record wool sales, were ahead of the transformation plan, introduced world first ten year wool contracts and then, disaster (literally) struck. Our yarn plant was wrecked by Cyclone Gabrielle and we had to relocate our supply chain offshore and navigate the third biggest insurance claim in New Zealand. We managed to do it. Along the way rebuilding stock, winning most trusted carpet brand, winning new government contracts and enhancing the culture of the company along the way.

  • Icebreaker (7 yrs 8 mos)
    • Chief Executive Officer
      Jun 2017 - Feb 2021 · 3 yrs 9 mos

      My first job as CEO was to sell the business. We did it. (For 300 million) Second was to integrate into VF Corporation. We did it (and made record profit) Third was as to relocate our Global product development team to NZ. We did it. (Relocating some team members and hiring great new people too) Fourth was full transformation and relocation of offices and teams in Germany and Canada to VFC headquarters in Switzerland and the USA. We did it (and kept the culture alive and kicking) It was a hell of a ride and the challenges faced made me a stronger leader. How it all started: 21 years ago, I wrote down on a piece of paper I wanted to be a CEO. It was part of a leadership course I was attending and obviously the session was about setting goals. I had learned as a retail store manager the incredible feeling of helping individuals realise their potential and the positive impact that had on their lives and the business. I was hooked. I wanted more responsibility. During the years since I have chased the dream hard. In all honesty, looking back I could never have imagined I would be lucky enough to become CEO of such a great business like icebreaker. The challenge, change, learning curve, experiences and importantly the people have helped teach me so much. Learning never stops.

    • General Manager NZA
      Jul 2013 - Jun 2017 · 4 yrs

      Responsible for the ongoing strategic direction and profitable growth of the eCom, Retail and Wholesale channels within Australasia for Icebreaker. Member of the executive team Reporting to the CEO Responsible for developing the Global Retail Strategy

  • Michael Hill Jeweller (21 yrs 2 mos)
    • Retail General Manager
      Sep 2008 - Jun 2013 · 4 yrs 10 mos

      Michael Hill the man was a true business pioneer that reshaped jewellery retailing in Australasia. With incredible people, training and recognition, Michael Hill is a pinnacle retailer. Becoming GM of New Zealand was hard fought, an exhilarating ride and a proud moment. I was responsible for sustainable profitable growth year on year of this iconic NZ brand through the recruitment and development of world class leaders.

    • Regional Manager
      Feb 2002 - Sep 2008 · 6 yrs 8 mos

      Recruit and train the future leaders of Michael Hill. Grow profit. Locate new sites. Open new stores. Ensure all stores achieve above company standards.

    • Manager
      May 1992 - Mar 2002 · 9 yrs 11 mos

      Store manager, various locations. Own the p and l. Exceed budgeted sales and profit targets.