Coles Group has appointed lawyer Jenny Linsten as its new Code Arbiter following the resignation of the Honorary Jeff Kennett after almost 10 years in the position.
Coles was the first Australian supermarket retailer to adopt an independent arbitration process to help resolve commercial disputes. It was also instrumental in the creation of the Food and Grocery Conduct Code, becoming a foundation signatory in 2015. The voluntary industry code establishes standards of business conduct between retailers and their suppliers.
“We strive to build and sustain strong, long-term partnerships with our suppliers. The independent model, supported by the Code Arbiter, is an important mechanism to ensure trust and transparency throughout the grocery sector and is an avenue for suppliers to address any issues,” said Leah Weckert, Coles Group CEO.
Jenny Listen brings with her over 30 years of legal and commercial experience to Coles, having held positions such as General Counsel and Company Secretary of the Ford Motor Company of Australia, lawyer at Clayton Utz, and Principal of Jenny Linsten Legal, her own legal advisory practice.
“Coles’ ongoing commitment to an independent dispute resolution process gives suppliers and the public confidence that concerns are being heard and acted upon. I recognise Coles’ leadership in this space and look forward to meeting and hearing from Coles’ suppliers through my role as Code Arbiter,” said Listen.
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