Asda has appointed Barney Burgess, a former Tesco executive, as interim vice president of online operations.
- Burgess will oversee Asda’s online platforms, including its website and George.com, reporting directly to the chief digital officer.
- His extensive background includes over 25 years in retail, notably assisting Tesco with its click and collect service launch.
- This temporary role will conclude when David Devany joins Asda in 2025.
- Andrew Staniland’s unexpected decision to join Morrisons instead of Asda has highlighted recent shifts in retail appointments.
Asda has announced the appointment of Barney Burgess, formerly of Tesco, as the interim vice president of online operations. Burgess, who has a longstanding career in retail, consumer, and financial services, brings significant experience to the table. He is charged with steering Asda’s digital platforms, including Asda.com and George.com, in an effort to enhance their online presence.
Burgess will report to Matt Kelleher, the chief digital officer of Asda, reflecting a streamlined management structure aimed at bolstering Asda’s digital marketplace. His role is temporary, intended to bridge the gap until the arrival of David Devany from Iceland, who is expected to take over as the permanent vice president of online in 2025.
Notably, Burgess had a noteworthy tenure at Tesco from 2007 to 2014, wherein he played a crucial role in the launch of their click and collect service. His experience is further underscored by his time at McKinsey, advising on operational strategies for online grocery businesses, which positions him favourably to contribute to Asda’s digital strategy.
In a related development, Andrew Staniland, who was slated to join Asda as a vice president, has opted for a position at Morrisons instead. This change came as an unexpected shift in the landscape of retail appointments. Staniland will now assume the role of group trading director at Morrisons, commencing in February. This change in plans accentuates the dynamic nature of leadership movements within the retail sector.
The interim leadership of Barney Burgess is a strategic move by Asda to enhance its online platforms while awaiting the permanent appointee.
