Kiwi to take on top Harvey Norman job in Oz

NZ GM Luke Naish to become computers and communications general manager for Australia

Harvey Norman will install New Zealand general manager, Luke Naish, as its new Australian computers and communications general manager following the departure of Rutland Smith next month.

In a memo to Harvey Norman staff sighted by ARN, chief operating officer, John Slack-Smith, announced that Naish would assume the role from early December.

Smith is taking over as franchisee at its Bundall, Queensland, store from January 1, 2008.

He says that while the general manager's role had been fulfilling, the demanding travel schedule had taken its tool.

"I've made this decision for lifestyle reasons - I have a young family which is a high priority to me. It's time to put them first," he says. "I'm thrilled about the move to Bundall because it allows me to continue to be part of the Harvey Norman family."

Naish has spent the past five years running Harvey Norman's New Zealand business. One of his first tasks in Australia will be to appoint a new computer division business manager to replace Paul English, who was promoted to head up the retailer's office division a couple of months back.

"Luke has done an outstanding job and I'm confident he will be a great leader here," Smith says.

Smith took over the general manager's post from Slack-Smith in November 2005. He has been with Harvey Norman for 10 years, previously as the retailer's computer division business manager. His resume also includes Harvey Norman franchisee roles in Melbourne and stints with IBM and Apple.