Chris Lude is a seasoned retail executive specialising in the outdoor industry. Chris currently serves as the Chief Executive Officer of Anaconda, Australia’s leading outdoor retailer. Chris was appointed as Anaconda’s CEO in 2018, and has since expanded Anaconda to more than 100 stores nationwide. Chris has been instrumental in Anaconda’s profound growth, launching initiatives such as "Anaconda Island," a collaborative project with Tiwi Island Retreat and Collab Capital allowing customers to win once in a lifetime fishing trips. Chris was also responsible for launching Anaconda’s flagship superstores which feature indoor fishing lakes, tent cities, and virtual fishing simulators. Prior to joining Anaconda, Chris held various leadership positions with ASX listed business, Super Retail Group, working with brands such as BCF and Ray’s Outdoors. Chris’s leadership style is characterised by a strong emphasis on team engagement and collaboration. His approach has been praised for fostering a culture of inclusivity and innovation within the organization. Chris is an expert in the retail industry, team development, business expansion, supply chain optimisation, business restructuring, retail property acquisition, and trade partner relations. Outside of Chris’s corporate life, he enjoys playing cards, boating, and travelling.
