Casino Group’s Strategic Overhaul: Paulina Glaziou Takes the Helm as Group Merchandise Director
In a significant move to enhance its purchasing strategy and organizational efficiency, Casino Group has appointed Pauline Glaziou as its new Group Merchandise Director, effective from 1 November 2024. This strategic decision, marked by leadership changes, aims to strengthen the group’s operational performance in the ever-evolving retail landscape.
A Bold Leadership Shift
Pauline Glaziou, a seasoned professional with extensive experience in business management and purchasing, is set to lead Casino Group’s central purchasing unit. This appointment is not just a change in leadership; it brings gender balance to the executive committee, where women now hold the majority.
Glaziou’s Path to Leadership
Prior to her new role, Glaziou was the Commercial Director for Food and Beauty at Monoprix, adding significant depth to her portfolio. Her previous tenure as Food Purchasing Director for Casino Group equipped her with invaluable insights into the group’s operations and brand dynamics. With over 25 years in the industry, her expertise encompasses strategic offerings, commercial negotiations, and operational account management—a potent combination for steering Casino Group’s purchasing efforts.
Transition at Monoprix
Alongside Glaziou’s appointment, Romain Pobe will take on the role of Food and Beauty Product and E-Commerce Director at Monoprix. His specialization in purchasing and market strategy stems from a successful career within the METRO Group, including a notable stint as Commercial Director for METRO Italia. His transfer mirrors Glaziou’s previous trajectory, maintaining a steady flow of experienced leadership within the organization.
A Farewell to a Veteran
The landscape of leadership is shifting, as Hervé Daudin, who has dedicated 22 years to Casino Group, prepares to step down on 31 October 2024. Serving as Merchandise Director since 2009, Daudin’s tenure was characterized by profound insight into purchasing, logistics, and supply chain management. His farewell marks the end of an era, but his legacy in merging teams and fostering group integration will undoubtedly influence the organization well into the future.
A Renewed Focus on Purchasing Strategy
The restructuring of the purchasing function is part of Casino Group’s broader strategy to enhance competitive pricing for franchisees and consumers alike. This initiative is reinforced by the recent appointment of Béatrice Avril as Head of Food and Non-Food Purchasing, forming a cohesive strategy that emphasizes performance improvement and responsive market strategies.
Philippe Palazzi, the CEO of Casino Group, articulated the strategic vision: “Strengthening the synergies between our banners’ purchasing functions is essential to maximising the Group’s efficiency and competitiveness." Palazzi’s vision underscores a commitment to operational excellence by optimizing resources and refining processes while maintaining the distinct identity of each brand within the group.
The Backgrounds of the New Leaders
Pauline Glaziou
Glaziou’s qualifications include a Master’s degree in Retail and Food Processing from Marseille. Her career spans key roles in Monoprix, Intersnack, Heineken, and Merck Consumer Health, where she managed major portfolios and led large teams. Recognized for her prowess in strategic planning and negotiations, her approach is expected to foster a renewed dynamic in Casino Group’s purchasing capabilities.
Romain Pobe
Romain Pobe complements Glaziou’s leadership with his extensive background in purchasing and marketing strategy. Holding dual Master’s degrees in Business Administration and International Purchasing, alongside an Executive MBA from HEC Paris, Pobe combines academic rigor with practical experience. His diverse roles within METRO have not only refined his purchasing acumen but have also prepared him for the challenges ahead in the e-commerce domain.
Conclusion
Casino Group’s organizational changes reflect a determined commitment to enhancing operational efficiency and purchasing strategies. As Pauline Glaziou steps into her new role, the industry watches closely for how her leadership will shape the future of the group. With a talented team in place, including Romain Pobe at Monoprix and a clear strategic vision from Philippe Palazzi, Casino Group stands poised for a transformative journey ahead. This new direction not only aims to improve pricing competitiveness but also seeks to adapt dynamically to the changing needs of consumers and franchisees alike.
