John Lewis Partnership’s CEO Nish Kankiwala will transition to a non-executive role in 2025.
- Kankiwala had taken up the CEO position to aid in the company’s transformation efforts.
- Under his leadership, the company reduced its pre-tax losses significantly.
- Jason Tarry, the new chairman, appreciates Kankiwala’s contribution to the company.
- The transition marks a strategic phase for John Lewis and Waitrose as they continue to progress.
Nish Kankiwala, who has been serving as the Chief Executive Officer of John Lewis Partnership, will step back to a non-executive role in March 2025. This move aligns with the company’s strategic objectives as it ushers in a new leadership phase under the guidance of Jason Tarry, the newly appointed chairman.
Kankiwala initially stepped into the CEO position in March 2023, invited by the board to support the company’s transformation efforts during a critical period. His leadership was instrumental in refreshing the company’s strategy with a focus rooted in retail, significantly enhancing cash flows, and returning the company to a full-year profit.
During his tenure, the John Lewis Partnership, which encompasses both John Lewis and Waitrose, managed to cut its pre-tax losses from £59 million to £30 million by the end of July. The company is on course to achieve substantially higher profits at the close of the financial year, demonstrating the positive impact of the strategies implemented under Kankiwala’s leadership.
Jason Tarry, who succeeded Dame Sharon White as chairman, commended Kankiwala for his integral role in accelerating the transformation of the company. Tarry expressed his gratitude for Kankiwala’s decision to remain on the board as a non-executive advisor, noting that his ongoing support will be invaluable for future strategic directions.
Kankiwala, reflecting on his term as CEO, expressed pride in the achievements accomplished during his leadership, crediting the dedication and hard work of his partners. He remains confident in the future successes under Tarry’s stewardship and is committed to providing advisory support to the board.
The transition of leadership roles within John Lewis Partnership marks a significant juncture as it continues its transformation journey.
