In a move that has sent ripples through Australia’s consumer electronics retail sector, Bruce Thierbach — one of the architects of modern JB Hi-Fi and most recently General Manager of Sales & Marketing at Audio Active — has stepped away from the industry after four decades.

Thierbach confirmed his departure this week, telling ChannelNews the decision was driven by a long-delayed plan to retire.

“It was time to retire,” he said. “I kept putting it off. I wanted more balance in my life, but the business kept dragging me back.”

His exit marks the end of a 40-year career deeply intertwined with the evolution of Australian specialty audio and consumer electronics retailing.

A Foundational JB Hi-Fi Figure

Thierbach spent 24 years at JB Hi-Fi, joining during its formative years and becoming part of the core team that helped transform the retailer from a niche hi-fi chain into a national powerhouse.

JB Hi-Fi was originally founded in 1974 in Keilor East, Melbourne, by John “JB” Barbuto as a low-price specialist music and hi-fi store. The business built its reputation on aggressive discounting and a strong connection to music enthusiasts.

The chain’s expansion phase came under the leadership of Richard Bouris, David Rodd and Peter Caserta, who grew JB Hi-Fi into a multi-store network across Victoria and Sydney, reaching approximately 10 stores and $150 million in turnover by 2000. The company listed on the Australian Securities Exchange in 2003, cementing its transition into large-scale national retailing.

Thierbach was among the executives who helped shape that growth, working alongside figures such as Terry Smart, former Marketing Director Scott Browning and Richard Uechtritz. He also worked closely with Richard Bouris, who eventually sold the business to the management team that continues to run JB Hi-Fi today.

Following JB Hi-Fi’s 2004 acquisition of Clive Anthony, Thierbach was handed responsibility for the business, further broadening his operational footprint within the group.

Driving Audio Active’s Growth

In recent years, Thierbach shifted focus to Audio Active, where he led sales and marketing efforts and played a key role in expanding the company’s presence in the specialised audio and custom installation market.

Industry insiders credit him with helping reposition Audio Active as a serious player in high-end audio and integration, strengthening supplier relationships and refining its retail strategy in an increasingly competitive market.

His departure leaves a significant leadership gap at a time when specialist audio retailers are navigating margin pressure, shifting consumer demand and intensifying online competition.

Successor Named

Audio Active has appointed Gareth Welder as Thierbach’s replacement.

Welder joins from Westan, where he served as Channel Product Manager for Audio over the past two years. Prior to that, he operated Hi-Fi Collective, giving him experience across both distribution and specialist retail.

The leadership transition signals a generational shift, as Audio Active moves from a founding-era retail executive to a younger industry operator with product and channel management experience.

For many in the sector, however, Thierbach’s departure represents more than a routine executive change. It marks the exit of one of the last remaining figures from the team that helped build JB Hi-Fi into one of Australia’s most successful retail brands.

After 40 years in the business, Thierbach’s departure closes a chapter in Australian audio retail history.