What: A Tesco veteran will replace Dame White when she steps out.

Why it is important: This clearly signals a “back to basics” gesture.

The John Lewis Partnership has appointed former Tesco UK and Ireland CEO Jason Tarry as its new chair, replacing Dame Sharon White who will step down in September. Tarry, a Tesco veteran of over 33 years, is expected to bring a strong track record in multi-channel, multi-category retail success and a strong alignment with the Partnership's values.

The Partnership's deputy chair, Rita Clifton, praised White's leadership in guiding the company through the COVID-19 pandemic and cost-of-living crisis, helping to restore the business to financial health with a return to profit. White also helped to secure the future of the Partnership's model of employee ownership.

As the Partnership moves into the next phase of its modernization, focusing on its core retail business and future growth, Clifton expressed confidence that Tarry will provide the "inspirational leadership" required. Tarry's warmth, belief in the Partnership's ideals and democratic principles, and appreciation for its unique brands were highlighted as key qualities.

The announcement comes as the John Lewis Partnership reported a pre-tax profit of £42 million before exceptional items for the year ended 27 January, up from a £78 million loss the previous year. White, who was criticized by some for her lack of direct retail experience, noted that Tarry's "combination of fantastic retail experience with leadership through transformation" will be valuable.

Tarry, who joined Tesco's graduate program in 1990 and led its UK and Ireland business for six years, said he is looking forward to working closely with the Partnership's chair, Nish Kankiwala, and the executive team to deliver the company's clear strategy. He expressed his admiration for the Partnership's employee-ownership model, values, and Partner-led customer service, stating that his focus will be on being "brilliant retailers for customers and investing in growth.”

John Lewis Partnership hires ex Tesco UK CEO as new chair