Woolworths has announced two of its directors, Christine Cross and David Mackay, will not seek re-election at the 2015 annual general meeting, with both to retire before the meeting in November.

Cross and Mackay both joined the board in January 2012 as independent non-executive directors.

“Both Christine and David have brought considerable international retailing and FMCG experience to the Woolworths boardroom,” said Woolworths chairman, Gordon Cairns, who took up the role this month.

“Christine has had a distinguished retailing career in the UK, and was an advisor to Woolworths before she joined the board. David was the chief executive and president of Kellogg Company before commencing a non-executive career,” Cairns said.

“Both directors have heavy commitments here in Australia and overseas, and they have decided it is time to stand aside to facilitate further board renewal.”

The departures follow the resignation of Woolworths CEO, Grant O’Brien, and Big W MD, Alistair McGeorge earlier this year.

“The company is committed to ensuring a strong and diverse board, with a mix of skills and relevant experience,” Cairns said.