Having announced in September that her turnaround plan for the John Lewis Partnership was going to take longer than she originally anticipated, Sharon White, the retailer’s chairman since 2020, has asked the Partnership Board to initiate the process to appoint a successor at the end of her five year term which terminates in February 2025.
“The chairman of the John Lewis Partnership is a special and unique role in UK business,” stated Sharon. “The chairman is responsible for the long-term health of the Partnership’s model – commercial success, twinned with a commitment to first rate customer service and action in our communities.
“Having led the Partnership through the pandemic and the worst of the cost of living crisis, it is important that there is now a smooth and orderly succession process and handover.”
She continued: “The Partnership is making progress in its modernisation and transformation with improving results. There is a long road ahead and I am committed to handing on the strongest possible Partnership to my successor.”
As part of the recruitment process, Sharon has asked the Board to review the accountabilities of the chairman’s role to ensure that these continue to support the successful transformation of the business.
Top: Sharon White, chairman of the John Lewis Partnership, will be stepping down in 2025.
