Sharon White, John Lewis Partnership chairman is to give up her role, after just one five-year term.
White has told the group’s board that she does not want to serve a further term. The process to appoint White began in November 2018. Her appointment was announced in June 2019 and she started the role in February 2020. Her White’s five-year term will come to an end in February 2025, making her the shortest serving holder of the role.
‘As part of the recruitment process, the chairman has also asked the board to review the accountabilities of the chairman’s role to ensure that these continue to support the successful transformation of the business,’ says the group.
Rita Clifton, as deputy chairman and chairman of the nominations committee, will oversee the appointment process. As required by the partnership’s constitution, the appointment will be approved by the partnership board.
‘The chairman of the John Lewis Partnership is a special and unique role in UK business. The chairman is responsible for the long-term health of the partnership’s model – commercial success twinned with a commitment to first rate customer service and action in our communities. Having led the partnership through the pandemic and the worst of the cost of living crisis, it is important that there is now a smooth and orderly succession process and handover,’ says White.
‘The partnership is making progress in its modernisation and transformation with improving results. There is a long road ahead and I am committed to handing on the strongest possible partnership to my successor.’
