Asda has strategically enhanced its senior leadership team by recruiting key figures from rival retailers Morrisons and M&S, aiming to revitalise its growth trajectory.
The supermarket giant has appointed Lauren Lepley, formerly Morrisons’ Group Supply Chain Director, as its new Vice President of Central Operations. Lepley, known for her expertise in supply chain logistics, is set to join Asda in early December. Meanwhile, Mark Henry, who was M&S’s Group Asset Protection Director, will assume the role of Vice President of Retail South starting in January.
Providing over 25 years of operational experience, including significant tenure at Lidl, Henry will oversee Asda’s southern store operations. These appointments are part of a broader strategy to strengthen Asda’s operational framework as it navigates a competitive market.
Both executives will report to Matt Heslop, Asda’s new Chief Operations Officer, scheduled to begin his role in January. In discussing the new appointments, Chairman Lord Rose expressed confidence in the capabilities of Lepley and Henry, highlighting their history of delivering operational excellence. He stated, “We are very pleased to welcome Lauren and Mark to Asda. They both bring a wealth of retail experience and proven track records in delivering operational excellence. This will be invaluable as we strengthen our business and deliver our long-term growth ambitions.”
These strategic hires follow recent leadership changes, including the departure of co-owner Mohsin Issa from his management role last month. The executive responsibilities were transitioned to Lord Rose, alongside Rob Hattrell from TDR Capital, Asda’s majority shareholder. The new appointments build upon other notable hires such as Andrew Staniland, formerly from Iceland Foods, and David Devaney, enhancing the supermarket’s leadership roster.
Asda’s recent leadership acquisitions reflect its strategic commitment to strengthening its operational capabilities in pursuit of long-term growth.
