Health and beauty giant AS Watson makes internal promotion for new Superdrug property director

AS Watson announced that Jennings will succeed former Superdrug property director Nigel Duxbury on May 2, after he announced his retirement. She becomes the third female executive on the beauty giant’s twelve-strong board of directors.

Jennings joined AS Watson back in 2018 as senior regional estates manager, before being promoted to head of estates in 2021. She has over 25 years of experience working in commercial property.

The retailer said Jennings’ promotion “is in recognition of her ongoing contribution and success,” which includes refitting the flagship Marble Arch Superdrug store and managing a “thriving property team”.

Her role will cover Superdrug and Savers, and Jennings will also oversee the property of AS Watson’s stable brand The Perfume Shop.

“I am very passionate about our store estate and for Superdrug in particular, we have very strong ambitions in 2025. We aim to open 30 new sites this year, including best-in-class retail park stores in locations like Leeds Briggate and Meadowhall.

“We will also refit 65 stores to ensure that we continue to offer our customers and communities the very best in modern, up-to-date shopping experiences,” said Jennings.

Superdrug chief executive and AS Watson director Peter Macnab said: “Nigel’s immense contribution to the AS Watson Group has been nothing short of remarkable.

“He has played an integral role in transforming Superdrug, as well as Savers and The Perfume Shop and has been instrumental in making them the robust businesses they are today.”