Major UK retailer John Lewis has chosen former Tesco chief executive Jason Tarry as its seventh chairman, with the experienced retail leader set to take over from Sharon White.
Tarry brings more 33 years of experience at the UK supermarket chain, where he led the UK and Ireland business for six years. John Lewis said his experience spans grocery, general merchandise and fashion in senior commercial, operational and general management positions, having joined the Tesco graduate programme in 1990.
In addition to delivering its grocery performance in the UK, Tarry is credited for leading the expansion of F&F Clothing across Europe as group CEO. He is expected to take up the role in September, with White stepping down in February 2025.
Rita Clifton, deputy chairman and chair of the Nomination Committee, said in a statement: "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."
John Lewis said that Tarry will work closely with Nish Kankiwala, the partnership’s CEO. His appointment comes less than a month after John Lewis returned to profit after three years by recording a pre-tax profit of £56 million.
Clifton also paid tribute to outgoing chair, White, thanking her for "successfully leading the partnership through one of the most testing periods in its history", referring to 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," said Clifton.
She added: "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."
White shared last October that should would be stepping down from the role at the end of her five-year term and is expected to support during the transition. She added: "I'm delighted to be handing over to Jason, who has a combination of fantastic retail experience with leadership through transformation.
"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."