Nish Kankiwala, CEO of John Lewis Partnership, will step back to a non-executive role in March 2025.
- Kankiwala accepted the CEO role in March 2023 to aid the company’s transformation during a critical period.
- Financial results show significant reduction in pre-tax losses, suggesting a turnaround under Kankiwala’s leadership.
- Jason Tarry takes over as chairman, with Kankiwala supporting in an advisory capacity.
- Kankiwala expresses confidence in Tarry’s leadership and reflects on achievements made during his tenure.
Nish Kankiwala, currently the CEO of the John Lewis Partnership, has announced his decision to revert to a non-executive role by March 2025. Kankiwala’s transition is aimed at supporting the newly appointed chairman, Jason Tarry, who succeeded Dame Sharon White. Kankiwala initially stepped into the CEO position in March 2023, during a pivotal time for the Partnership, with the objective of accelerating its transformation.
Under Kankiwala’s leadership, the John Lewis Partnership has reported a considerable reduction in its pre-tax losses, from £59 million to £30 million, for the half-year ending 27 July. This financial improvement indicates the effectiveness of strategies implemented during his tenure, as the Partnership remains on track for significantly higher full-year profits.
In his own words, Kankiwala stated: “The board asked me to move across from my non-executive director role to chief executive back in March 2023. This was in view of such a significant time for the Partnership and to help accelerate this phase of the transformation.” This strategic move refreshed the Partnership’s strategy to focus on retail, improved cash flows, and enabled record investments for future growth.
The incoming chairman, Jason Tarry, commended Kankiwala for his instrumental role in the Partnership’s transformation. Tarry expressed gratitude for Kankiwala’s continued involvement as a non-executive board advisor, considering his expertise invaluable for the next stage of the company’s development. Kankiwala, on his part, expressed confidence in Tarry’s capabilities to further strengthen the Partnership.
Kankiwala expressed pride over the achievements accomplished during his leadership period and attributed the success to the hard work and dedication of all partners involved. He expressed eagerness to support Tarry and the board, highlighting the collaborative spirit that has been integral to the company’s progress during this transformational phase.
The transition in leadership marks a new chapter for John Lewis Partnership, poised for continued success.
