Sarah Hunter: Leading Officeworks to New Heights as Managing Director

Sarah Hunter has established herself as a respected leader in Australia’s retail industry. As the Managing Director of Officeworks, she has taken the company to new heights by focusing on customer satisfaction, team collaboration, and community support. With an extensive background in retail, finance, and business strategy, Hunter’s leadership has been integral in shaping Officeworks’ success, especially in the areas of innovation, sustainability, and inclusivity. This article explores Sarah Hunter’s journey and her leadership approach that has made a significant impact on Officeworks and the retail sector in Australia.

The Leadership of Sarah Hunter at Officeworks

Sarah Hunter became the Managing Director of Officeworks in January 2019, bringing with her years of experience from her time at Coles and other notable companies. In her role, she has been committed to transforming Officeworks into Australia’s leading supplier of office products and solutions. Under her leadership, the company has flourished, focusing on serving customers across various sectors, including small-to-medium businesses, home offices, and educational institutions.

Her leadership philosophy revolves around creating products and services that make life easier for customers, providing value and convenience. As a working mother of two young children, Hunter understands the importance of a flexible working environment, not only for customers but also for her team members. Her emphasis on diversity, inclusion, and supporting her staff has played a crucial role in building a thriving workplace culture at Officeworks.

Sarah Hunter’s Experience and Career Background

Before taking the reins at Officeworks, Sarah Hunter had an impressive career trajectory that spanned across several industries and roles. She worked for Coles Group for over eight years, where she held various senior positions. Most notably, she served as the Director of the Demerger Program in 2018, overseeing the separation of Coles from Wesfarmers. Her tenure at Coles included roles such as General Manager of Workplace Strategy and State General Manager for Victoria, where she was instrumental in driving operational efficiency and growth.

Hunter’s career journey also took her to the United Kingdom, where she worked in senior commercial roles in banking and airports. She was the Finance & Strategy Director at Gatwick Airport, where she contributed to the strategic direction and financial health of one of the UK’s busiest airports. This international experience added a global perspective to her leadership style and strategy, further enriching her ability to navigate complex business environments.

Commitment to Sustainability and Community Engagement

One of Sarah Hunter’s most noteworthy contributions at Officeworks has been her focus on sustainability and corporate social responsibility. She has spearheaded various initiatives to reduce the company’s environmental impact while supporting the communities Officeworks serves.

Officeworks has introduced several recycling programs under her leadership, including initiatives for battery, pen, e-waste, and ink cartridge recycling. These efforts have been pivotal in reducing the company’s carbon footprint and promoting a culture of sustainability. Hunter has also made it a priority for Officeworks to ethically source paper products, ensuring that the company’s supply chain adheres to sustainable practices.

Beyond environmental efforts, Sarah Hunter has driven community engagement initiatives aimed at improving education and literacy across Australia. Officeworks has partnered with The Smith Family to support students in need, providing educational resources to those who may not have access to them otherwise. Additionally, the company has launched campaigns like the “Wall of Hands” initiative, raising funds to support literacy and numeracy programs for disadvantaged students.

Education and Career Development

Sarah Hunter holds a range of academic qualifications, which have undoubtedly contributed to her success as a business leader. She earned her Bachelor of Commerce from Bond University and further honed her skills in finance and investment by obtaining a Graduate Diploma from the Securities Institute of Australia. Hunter also completed her Master of Commerce at the University of New South Wales, specializing in Accounting.

Her educational background is complemented by her credentials as a Chartered Accountant (ACCA) and her involvement with the Australian Institute of Company Directors. She has continuously invested in her professional development, ensuring that she remains at the forefront of business strategy and leadership practices. This combination of formal education and practical experience has shaped Sarah Hunter into an effective leader with the ability to steer Officeworks toward long-term success.

Impact on Small Businesses and Education

One of the key areas of focus for Sarah Hunter and Officeworks is the support and growth of small businesses across Australia. As a company that provides office supplies, technology, and business solutions, Officeworks plays a significant role in helping small enterprises succeed. Sarah Hunter is particularly passionate about supporting Australia’s small business sector, recognizing that these businesses are the backbone of the economy.

Under Hunter’s leadership, Officeworks has continued to expand its services to cater to the needs of small business owners, offering solutions such as business printing, IT support, and workspace furniture. By focusing on these areas, Officeworks has positioned itself as a go-to provider for small businesses looking for affordable, high-quality products and services.

In addition to supporting small businesses, Sarah Hunter has also been a champion for educational initiatives. She believes in the power of education to transform lives and is committed to ensuring that Officeworks supports educators, students, and parents alike. The company offers a wide range of educational products, including learning resources, stationary, and tools designed to enhance the learning experience. Hunter’s commitment to improving education in Australia has helped position Officeworks as an essential resource for schools and students nationwide.

The Future of Officeworks Under Sarah Hunter’s Leadership

As of 2025, Sarah Hunter continues to lead Officeworks with a vision of expanding its reach, enhancing its sustainability efforts, and remaining a trusted partner for businesses and educators across Australia. Her forward-thinking approach and commitment to customer-centricity have set a strong foundation for the company’s growth in the coming years. Officeworks’ ongoing investment in technology and its growing range of services are likely to make it an even more indispensable resource for Australian businesses and households.

With a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities within the retail and business sectors, Sarah Hunter is poised to guide Officeworks through the evolving business landscape. She remains focused on creating value for customers while ensuring that Officeworks remains a positive force in the community and environment.

Conclusion

Sarah Hunter’s leadership at Officeworks has transformed the company into a powerhouse of innovation, customer service, and community engagement. Through her strategic direction, the company has made significant strides in sustainability, education, and supporting small businesses. As the Managing Director, Hunter has shaped Officeworks into a brand that Australians can trust for their office and business needs, while also fostering a culture of inclusivity and environmental responsibility. With her vast experience and forward-looking vision, Sarah Hunter is set to continue making a lasting impact on the retail industry in Australia for years to come.

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