Online grocer Ocado has appointed a new chair with a background in the technology industry and international businesses.

Ocado van

Source: Ocado

Online grocer Ocado has appointed a new chair

Adam Warby, who is at present chair of headhunter Heidrick & Struggles, will join the Ocado board tomorrow and formally become chair on December 1.

He succeeds Rick Haythornthwaite, who will step down from the board.

Warby was formerly a chair of SoftwareOne Holding AG, an enterprise software and cloud advice company, and a non-executive director of SimCorp A/S, a fintech specialist.

He was also chief executive of IT consultancy Avanade Corporation and brings experience from time at Microsoft and IBM.

Ocado founder and chief executive Tim Steiner said: “Adam joins us as chair designate at an important moment in Ocado’s development. Our world-leading technology is now live with 11 of our 13 partners globally, and we continue to expand the scope and reach of our technology into new markets and sectors.

“As we work with our partners to scale their online capabilities and hone their operations, Adam’s expertise as a leader in global technology and consulting will be a valuable asset to the board and leadership team.

“As chair, Rick has overseen the continued growth of the global technology business. His sage advice and strong leadership have been greatly appreciated.”

Warby said: “It is a huge honour to join the Ocado board. Ocado is a unique and innovative business, and a tremendous success story for the UK. I’m excited about the opportunities ahead, working with a visionary leadership team, an experienced board, and the many talented colleagues to grow the business and create greater value for our shareholders.”