John Lewis Partnership has appointed Helen Webb OBE as its new chief people officer, effective November 24.

Helen Webb John Lewis Partnership

Source: John Lewis Partnership

Helen Webb OBE has spent over three decades in senior people roles across retail and other sectors

Webb brings “significant experience” in people leadership and organisational development, having spent over 30 years in senior people roles across retail and other sectors, the retailer said.

She replaces Jo Rackham, who has held the post on an interim basis for the last 18 months.

Webb most recently served as the chief people officer at WHSmith, stepping down in July after more than two years. Prior to that, she worked at Co-op as its chief people and services officer.

John Lewis Partnership chairman Jason Tarry said: “I’m delighted to appoint Helen to the executive team as our new chief people officer. She will be instrumental in shaping the Partnership’s people strategy, fostering our strong Partner ethos and driving talent development. Helen will play a crucial role in nurturing our unique Partner culture and ensuring the Partnership remains a fantastic place to work.

“This is also a moment for me to express my huge gratitude to Jo Rackham, who has led brilliantly as interim chief people officer for the past 18 months. During this period, Jo has forged ahead with the People agenda and progressed important changes that are foundational to our work in the years ahead.”

Webb added: “It’s an incredible privilege to join the John Lewis Partnership, a business renowned for its unique ownership model and commitment to its Partners.

“I’m passionate about creating an environment where people can thrive and feel a true sense of belonging and I’m looking forward to working with the team to build on the Partnership’s strong foundations in the People space.”