Sir Michael Hill will take a leave of absence from the jewelry company he created and runs to undergo treatment for cancer.
Andrea Slingsby, who spent three years with the Australia-based jeweler from 2018 to 2021, will serve as alternate director to the board in his place, the company said Monday. Slingsby first came aboard Michael Hill as the interim chief people officer, before taking on the role of chief operating officer until her departure. She is currently a director at Prime Financial Group.
Slingsby has extensive experience in board governance and consulting, and advisory expertise across a range of industry sectors, including global retail, Michael Hill noted. She brings expertise in both domestic and international growth and sustainable scaling of Australian brands.
The jeweler, which operates stores in Australia, New Zealand and Canada, did not give a time frame for Hill’s absence, but commented Slingsby would work on a consultancy basis, which could be terminated by either party with seven days’ notice.
Hill founded the jewelry retailer in 1979, with the first store opening in Whangerei, New Zealand. The company currently operates 291 stores.
Image: Sir Michael Hill. (Michael Hill)
