Haigh's CEO announces retirement

Chief Executive Officer Alister Haigh has announced his retirement after 30 years at the helm of Haigh’s Chocolates.

He will be succeeded by Chief Operating Officer Peter Millard, marking the first time in the business’s 110-year history someone outside the Haigh family has been appointed as Chief Executive Officer of Haigh’s.

Haigh’s Chocolates continues to be family owned and Alister will remain on the Board alongside his fourth-generation family members Simon Haigh and Sara Fitzgerald. In addition to his board role, Alister plans to champion the rich history and legacy of Haigh’s in an ambassador role.

Official as of 4 August 2025, the transition in leadership comes during a significant time for Haigh’s, with the upcoming completion of its $130 million manufacturing facility in Salisbury South later this year and the opening of its seventh Sydney store in Broadway in September.

Alister started working at Haigh’s in 1973 and was appointed CEO in 1995; during this time Haigh’s has expanded its operations, tripling in size and producing over 1000 tonnes of chocolate annually.

“Reflecting on my time, it’s incredible to think how far we have come over the years with more than 300 chocolate varieties, 900 employees, 21 stores and grown tenfold, all while remaining true to the heritage and quality Haigh’s is known for,” Alister said.

Haigh’s Chocolates Board Chair Carolyn Mitchell said this is an exciting time for the business and for Alister, who is looking forward to spending more time with his family, on his farm in the Adelaide Hills and on his other interests.

“An external panel was engaged to interview Peter and ensure that he was the right person for the role and the right custodian of the Haigh’s brand. After presenting his vision for the business, it was undeniable that Peter has the passion, determination and understanding for this role,” Mitchell said.

Peter Millard has been with Haigh’s Chocolates for 19 years, starting as a Supply Chain Manager in 2006 before moving into his current role as Chief Operating Officer, which he has held for the past four years.

“Having had the privilege to work closely with Alister for nearly two decades, I have been inspired by his ambitious, humble and personable leadership. Alongside the family I remain passionate about preserving the enduring quality of Haigh’s premium chocolate to delight generations of chocolate lovers for years to come,” Millard said.

Turning 70 later this month, Alister is eager to see Millard take the reins and make the role his own.

“Peter has been integral to our success here at Haigh’s, responsible for the business’s day-to-day operations while proudly spearheading the development of our Salisbury South facility alongside a high-performing team. His work ethos is a testament to the Haigh’s values of contribution, determination and trust.

“I feel confident knowing that the business will continue to thrive and grow under his exceptional leadership,” Alister said.

Millard will transition into the Haigh’s Chocolates Chief Executive Officer role from 4 August 2025.