Sainsbury’s has announced the appointment of two new non-executive directors.
Both Katie Bickerstaffe and Steve Hare are set to join the board at Sainsbury’s following its annual general meeting (AGM) on July 3.
Bickerstaffe has held several leadership positions across retail and was most notably co-chief executive at Marks & Spencer.
Sainsbury’s called Bickerstaffe a “highly regarded retail and consumer business leader”. She also brings experience from her roles at Somerfield, Dyson, PepsiCo and Unilever.
Hare joins the business alongside his current role as chief executive at business technology company the Sage Group. He previously worked at private equity firm Apax Partners and engineering and technology company Invensys.
The grocer described Hare as a “very experienced leader of digital and tech businesses” who brings more than 10 years of experience leading finance functions at UK-listed companies.
Sainsbury’s also announced today that senior independent director Brian Cassin will not seek re-election at its AGM. He will be succeeded by Adrian Hennah who has been on the board since 2021.
Sainsbury’s chair Martin Scicluna said: “I am delighted to welcome Katie and Steve as non-executive directors. Their extensive experience and leadership in retail and digital businesses will be invaluable to our board. Katie’s strong perspectives on digital transformation and Steve’s expertise in leading tech businesses will greatly contribute to our strategic direction. We look forward to their insights and contributions as we continue to drive Sainsbury’s forward.
“I would also like to thank Brian for his commitment and dedication to Sainsbury’s. He has been on the board for nine years and throughout his time with us he has provided invaluable leadership. We wish him all the best for the future.”
Bickerstaffe said: “Retail is an incredibly competitive sector and Sainsbury’s has a longstanding reputation for delivering exceptional value and quality to its customers. I’m excited to join the board and help Sainsbury’s to foster further innovation and excellence.”
Hare added: “I am thrilled to be joining the Sainsbury’s board at a very important time for the business. The Next Level Sainsbury’s strategy is an exciting vision for the future and I look forward to working with the board and leadership team to continue creating value for shareholders.”
The appointments are subject to shareholder approval, along with the re-election of all other directors, at the AGM.
No comments yet