The tax dispute with Inland Revenue arose when the company shifted its main operations to Australia. Photo / File
Michael Hill International chief executive Mike Parsell is to step down after 16 years leading the jewellery company that bears its founder's name.
Parsell joined the company when it operated just three stores and has stayed with the retailer while it has grown to 300 outlets in Australia, Canada, New
Zealand and the US, as well as rolling out its Emma & Roe brand.
Emma Hill, the chair of Michael Hill, said chief financial officer Phil Taylor, another company veteran, having joined in 1987, will be acting CEO until a permanent replacement is found. Taylor has been CFO since 2003.
Parsell said it was "a good time for a change in leadership as the business is performing well and has a stable and experienced leadership team".
In June the company outlined a succession plan for the interests of the founding family, with 10 per cent of the company to be transferred to trusts for daughter Emma Hill and son Mark.
