Haigh’s Chocolates has appointed Peter Millard as its new chief executive, marking a significant shift in leadership for Australia’s oldest chocolate maker. This move breaks a tradition that has lasted for over a century, as Millard is the first CEO to be chosen from outside the Haigh family since the company was founded in 1915. His appointment signals a new chapter as the chocolate maker expands its national presence.
Millard has spent nearly two decades in various roles within the family-owned business. He brings a unique perspective to his new role, describing himself as a mathematician who enjoys the complexity of business operations. “I sit there and think about squares,” Millard stated, emphasizing his analytical approach to growth. He likens building a business to constructing an ever-expanding cube, where growth occurs in multiple dimensions.
As Haigh’s Chocolates opens its latest store in Sydney’s Broadway, the company’s footprint has now grown to 22 locations. Millard is focused on enhancing the operational side of the business, ensuring that it can manage the production of 1,120 tonnes of chocolate annually, a significant increase from 400 tonnes. This growth is complemented by a workforce that has quadrupled to 800 employees.
Despite the rapid expansion, Haigh’s Chocolates has experienced steady growth over the past decade, with sales surpassing $100 million. Millard acknowledges the challenges that come with such growth, particularly in an industry that relies heavily on human craftsmanship. In a world increasingly moving towards automation and artificial intelligence, he remains committed to the traditional methods that define Haigh’s products.
Millard’s leadership style contrasts sharply with the whimsical image often associated with chocolate entrepreneurs. He does not see himself as a Willy Wonka figure; instead, he embodies a more pragmatic approach to the chocolate business. His focus on the fundamentals of production and supply chain management highlights a commitment to maintaining the quality that has made Haigh’s a household name.
As the company navigates this new leadership landscape, Millard’s emphasis on complexity and dimensional growth could play a crucial role in shaping its future. With his mathematical mindset and dedication to the craft, he aims to ensure that Haigh’s Chocolates continues to thrive while honoring its rich heritage.
