Australian regulator sues retailer’s ex-CEO for misleading market over alleged office romance

Australia’s corporate regulator, the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), announced on September 21 that it would sue the former CEO of Super Retail Group, Anthony Heraghty, for allegedly misleading the board and market about an alleged romantic relationship with a senior executive at the company. Heraghty was dismissed as CEO in September 2025 after the board determined he had not adequately disclosed the relationship with the former head of human resources, Jane Kelly.

The regulator accused Heraghty of breaching his duties as a director and exposing the company to potential risks such as reputational damage, legal complaints, regulatory action, and harm to its share price and shareholders. ASIC Chair Sarah Court stated that Heraghty placed himself in a situation where personal interests conflicted with his duties to Super Retail Group and failed to properly disclose and manage that conflict.

ASIC is seeking declarations of contravention, financial penalties, and disqualification orders against Heraghty. Heraghty has not yet responded to a request for comment. The company, Winning Group, is preparing for an Australian IPO, according to local media reports.