Waitrose-parent company John Lewis Partnership announces CEO Nish Kankiwala’s return to a non-executive role, marking a strategic shift in leadership as Jason Tarry steps in as chairman.
- Nish Kankiwala will step back to a non-executive role by March 2025, aiding the new chairman, former Tesco UK boss Jason Tarry, in the company’s transformation journey.
- The John Lewis Partnership will not directly replace the CEO role, highlighting the company’s ongoing transformation and strategic direction.
- Kankiwala’s role shift follows his appointment as CEO in March 2023 during a critical phase of transformation for the company.
- Despite stepping back, Kankiwala’s expertise will continue to influence the board as a non-executive advisor.
Nish Kankiwala is set to return to his former position as a non-executive director of the John Lewis Partnership in March 2025, coinciding with the support for Jason Tarry, the new chairman who took over from Dame Sharon White. Kankiwala’s shift back to a non-executive role aligns with the company’s broader transformation strategy.
The role of chief executive will not be directly replaced, reflecting the significant progress in the business’s transformation efforts. Kankiwala was initially appointed as CEO less than two years ago, tasked with guiding the company through a pivotal period of change.
Upon his appointment in March 2023, Kankiwala was brought in due to his substantial experience in transformation, having formerly led Hovis as CEO. He was asked to step into the CEO role to accelerate the transformative phase for John Lewis Partnership.
His leadership has been marked by a renewed focus on retail strategy, improved cash flows for record investment, and a return to full-year profitability for the partnership. This strategic direction under Kankiwala’s leadership has positioned the company for future growth.
Rita Clifton, Deputy Chairman, praised Kankiwala’s contributions, noting his impact during a period of significant market challenges. Clifton emphasized the importance of Kankiwala’s continuing role as a non-executive advisor in supporting Jason Tarry’s transition.
Nish Kankiwala’s strategic leadership continues to benefit John Lewis Partnership as he transitions from CEO to a supportive non-executive role.
