Tesco has hired former Aldi boss Matthew Barnes as its new UK chief executive as Jason Tarry steps down from the business after 33 years.
Tarry, who has spent the last six years at the supermarket’s helm, will leave the grocer in March 2024.
He is credited with leading Tesco through its turnaround and rebuilding the supermarket’s competitiveness in the UK market, against the backdrop of the pandemic.
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Barnes, who will succeed Tarry, has held several senior positions at Aldi, including its UK and Ireland CEO before being promoted to Aldi Sud’s executive board where he was responsible for many of the discounters international businesses and its global sourcing, buying and supply chain.
Tesco Group chief executive Ken Murphy said: “Jason has made an immense contribution to our business.
“Under his leadership, Tesco today is the most competitive we have ever been, built on exceptionally strong foundations of doing the right thing for our customers and colleagues.
“His values and commitment to creating a high performing, supportive and diverse culture have been key to creating the Tesco we know today.
Tarry added: “Little could I have imagined 33 years ago, the journey I would go on with Tesco. My life in Tesco has been a wonderful experience.
“This decision was not made easily but this is the right time for me to move on. I am grateful to my amazing colleagues and the lifelong friends I have made here.
“I will continue to give my all to being UK CEO until March, and my determination that we give our customers the best Christmas is heightened knowing that this will be my last as a Tesco colleague.
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