The executive who helped build the $700million Michael Hill jewellery empire has died suddenly overnight aged just 57.
Daniel Bracken died due to an ‘adverse reaction to medical treatment for an underlying medical condition,’ the business said on Wednesday.
He has been remembered as a ‘passionate retailer’ and an ‘innovative and strategic thinker’ who has been in the top job at the ASX-listed Michael Hill International since 2018.
‘The board, executive and all of the Michael Hill team express their deepest and sincerest condolences to his family and friends,’ the company said.
‘On behalf of the board, we thank Daniel for his outstanding leadership and dedication to the Michael Hill Group and our people over the past seven years. He will be dearly missed.
‘Daniel was a passionate retailer, an innovative and strategic thinker and an inspiring leader, who transformed the Michael Hill Group into the company that it is today.’
Further details about interim leadership arrangements would be provided by the board in due course, the company said on Wednesday afternoon.
Bernie Brookes, the former Myer CEO and Mr Bracken’s former boss, said he was a ‘true merchandiser’ who had a superb career in retail.
Daniel Bracken (pictured with Jennifer Hawkins) died due to an ‘adverse reaction to medical treatment for an underlying medical condition,’ the business said on Wednesday
The lated Michael Hill CEO Daniel Bracken is pictured (right) with Jodi Gordon
‘He had a real skill in merchandising and branding,’ Mr Brookes told The Australian. ‘He was taken far too soon.’
Paul Zahra, a former cCEO of both David Jones and the Australian Retailers Association, said Mr Bracken as a ‘complete gentleman’ who used his international experience to benefit the brands he worked with.
‘The retail community is in shock,’ Mr Zahra said. ‘My sincere condolences goes to his family and friends at this difficult time.
‘From luxury fashion to leading a global jewellery retailer, Daniel’s leadership shaped iconic brands, driving innovation, growth and a lasting industry influence.’
Michael Hill International shares have dropped 4 per cent.
More to follow.
