John Lewis Partnership has hired ex-Tesco UK and Ireland CEO Jason Tarry to replace Dame Sharon White as chair.
Tesco veteran Tarry, who spent more than 33 years at the supermarket, is expected to take up the role in September when White will step down.
Tarry joined the Tesco graduate programme in 1990 and has experience across grocery, general merchandise and fashion in senior commercial, operational and general management positions. He led its UK and Ireland business for six years before stepping down last year and previously led the expansion of F&F Clothing across Europe as Group CEO.
John Lewis Partnership deputy chair Rita Clifton said: “The board extends its huge thanks to Sharon for successfully leading the Partnership through one of the most testing periods in its history – first Covid and then the cost-of-living crisis.
“She has faced into the toughest decisions and overseen the Partnership’s financial recovery; we are in good financial health with a return to profit, and have a strong balance sheet with record investment planned this year. Sharon has also helped ensure that employee ownership of the Partnership is secure, is demonstrably focused on its purpose as a force for good and with an open and inclusive culture.
“As the Partnership moves into the next phase of its modernisation focused on our core retail business as well future growth, we are confident that Jason will provide the kind of inspirational leadership, a proven track record in multi-channel, multi-category retail success and a strong identification with Partnership values that we are seeking in this role. Jason has impressed everyone throughout the interview process with his warmth, his belief in the Partnership’s ideals and democratic principles and his appreciation for our unique and special brands.”
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John Lewis Partnership confirmed last month that it had returned to profit, achieving a pre-tax profit of £42m before exceptional items for the year ended 27 January, up from a £78m loss the year before.
White, who was criticised by some observers during her tenure for her lack of retail experience, said that Tarry has “a combination of fantastic retail experience with leadership through transformation”.
She added: “From my many conversations with Jason, he has demonstrated a clear appreciation for the Partnership model and champions it. I look forward to welcoming him to the Partnership in September and carrying out a smooth handover.
“I also want to thank partners for their commitment and hard work; it’s been a huge privilege to be chairman and I’m proud of what everyone has achieved. We’ve built the foundations for a stronger Partnership and I’m confident that Jason will take it from strength to strength.”
The business highlighted that Tarry was “very supportive of our strategy” and said he was looking forward to working closely with John Lewis Partnership chair Nish Kankiwala,
Tarry added: “The Partnership and its brands stand for trust, value, quality and service and it’s a great privilege to be succeeding Sharon as the seventh chairman. The Partnership is unique and I’ve long been an admirer of the employee-ownership model, its values and Partner-led customer service. This starts with a sharp focus on being brilliant retailers for customers and investing in growth. I’m looking forward to working with the board, Nish and the executive team to deliver its clear strategy.”
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