MD of Big W, Alistair McGeorge, has resigned effective immediately, citing health reasons.

Woolworths said in a statement that a complaint had been made concerning McGeorge’s workplace behaviour.

“In the interests of transparency, Woolworths wishes to advise that there was a complaint about Mr George’s behaviour in the workplace. The behaviour was of a verbal nature,” the company said.

Woolworths advised that the complaint is being investigated and for legal reasons the company is unable to make any further comment on the matter.

Penny Winn will take over as acting MD of Big W until a permanent appointment is made.

Before McGeorge was appointed to lead Big W in June 2014, he worked with British retailers New Look, Matalan and Littlewoods.