Ex-Kmart CIO takes on new role at Ampol

Kmart chief information officer Brad Blyth has made the switch to Ampol, taking on a new leadership role of a freshly-formed team.

Brad Blyth, Ampol

Blyth shared on LinkedIn that he has joined the petroleum company as as executive general manger of technology, digital and data.

In his new role, Blyth will report to Ampol CEO and managing director Matt Halliday and will relocate from Melbourne to Sydney.

In a statement to iTnews, Halliday said Blyth's appointment “highlights the criticality of a digital approach in Ampol's continued success and underscores the significance of technology and the value of data in driving better experiences for customers.”

"The creation of this leadership role acknowledges the crucial role of digital, data and technology in advancing Ampol's strategy as we aim to stay ahead of evolving trends and demands of our customers and stakeholders," he said.

"Brad's experience and track record in driving digital transformation to achieve meaningful and sustainable growth is undeniable, and he is the ideal leader to guide the team through the evolution of our digital strategy."

Blyth's move marks the end of a four-year spell at Kmart, having joined the retailer from FlyBuys in January 2021. 

During the last four years, he has spearheaded the store's approach to in-store process digitisation  and steered its early forays into generative artificial intelligence. 

Announcing his move on LinkedIn, Blyth thanked “the amazing teams at Kmart and Target and the journey over the last four years.”

“I'm privileged and excited to take the helm of this newly formed team," he wrote. "Ampol Group has a great history of success."

"It has unmatched potential to positively impact Australians and New Zealanders, to prosper by leading the way through energy transition, helping customers with their energy needs."

“Cost of living and environmentally sustainable energy are topics that impact everyone, it's great to be able to join the team creating customer solutions,” he added.