Gildan Activewear Inc. appointed Rhodri J. Harries as executive vice-president, chief financial and administrative officer.

Harries, 51, has been the chief financial officer of Rio Tinto Alcan since 2014, where previously he held the position of chief commercial officer from 2009 to 2013. Harries joined Alcan in Montreal in 2004 as the vice president and corporate treasurer and remained with the company following its acquisition by Rio Tinto in 2007. Prior to joining Alcan, Harries spent 15 years in North America, Asia and Europe with General Motors, where he held successive positions of increasing responsibility in corporate finance, treasury and business development.

The effective date of Harries’ appointment has not yet been finalized while plans are developed to transition his responsibilities at Rio Tinto Alcan.

Harries succeeds Laurence G. Sellyn, who will continue with Gildan as required in order to support Harries’ integration into the Company and ensure an orderly transfer of responsibilities.

“We are extremely pleased that Rhodri is joining Gildan,” commented Glenn J. Chamandy, president and chief executive officer. “With his strong experience in finance, commercial and operations leadership roles in major global corporations, Rhodri will be an important addition to our executive team as we continue to implement the next stage of our growth strategies.”

Gildan's portfolio includes  company-owned brands, including the Gildan and Gold Toe brands and brand extensions, as well as the Anvil, Comfort Colors, Secret, Silks and Therapy Plus brands. The company also has the U.S. sock license for Under Armour, and licenses for Mossy Oak and New Balance brands.