John Lewis announces new chairman to replace Dame Sharon White

The John Lewis Partnership has said former Tesco UK boss Jason Tarry will become its next chairman.

It comes after Dame Sharon White confirmed she would step down at the end of her term at the employee-owned firm, which runs the department store chain and Waitrose supermarket business.

Mr Tarry, who was most recently UK & Ireland chief executive at Tesco for six years, will take over the leadership role in September.

Rita Clifton, deputy chairwoman and chairwoman of the nomination committee, 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.

“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.”

Outgoing John Lewis Partnership chairwoman Dame Sharon White said: “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.”

Mr Tarry said: “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.”