Outgoing Tesco boss Dave Lewis will stay in his role longer than previously expected.

Lewis announced his departure from the grocer last October and was set to step down this summer.

However, Lewis has agreed to extend his time at Tesco until September 30 to ensure a “smooth and seamless handover” after his successor Ken Murphy completes his “contractual non-compete obligations”.

Murphy will take the reins on October 1 and will join the board on the same day. 

Lewis joined Tesco as chief executive in 2014 and spent his time at the helm rebuilding the business.

Last year, Lewis said: “My decision to step down as group CEO is a personal one. I believe that the tenure of the CEO should be a finite one and that now is the right time to pass the baton. Our turnaround is complete, we have delivered all the metrics we set for ourselves.

“The leadership team is very strong, our strategy is clear and it is delivering.

“With these firm foundations and a competitive, sustainable growth strategy in place, I have no doubt that Tesco will kick on again under new leadership next year.

“When that time comes, I will watch the progress from outside with interest, deep affection and pride. In the meantime, you can be sure that I will give the job everything I have until my very last day.”