Shapland in shock Sainsbury’s departure
10 May 2011 09:40
J Sainsbury has announced that Darren Shapland, group development director, is to stand down with effect from the company's AGM on the 13th July 2011.
Mr Shapland plans to pursue a number of personal interests in the future but will remain with Sainsbury's as non-executive chairman of Sainsbury's Bank.
Luke Jensen, currently managing director non-food and a member of the operating board, will take over the role of group development director assuming Mr Shapland's existing responsibilities except for convenience, the bank and property.
Justin King, chief executive, will assume direct responsibility for the convenience business whilst John Rogers, chief financial officer, will add property to his remit.
David Tyler, chairman of J Sainsbury, said: "On behalf of the board and all Sainsbury's colleagues I would like to thank Darren very much for the extremely important role he played in helping to reposition Sainsbury's from recovery to growth. I have valued his input on a day-to-day basis and I am delighted that we will continue to benefit from his advice and experience through his role as chairman of Sainsbury's Bank."
Justin King added: "I have enjoyed working with Darren both personally and professionally and thank him for the considerable contribution he has made to the recovery programme, Making Sainsbury's Great Again, over six successful years.
"I am confident that with the appointment of Luke, together with the strong leadership team we have in place, our growth agenda will continue as planned."
Darren Shapland added: "It has been a real pleasure to work within a successful team at Sainsbury's, helping my colleagues implement the turnaround of the company and the move from recovery to growth.
The business is in great shape and this feels an appropriate time to move on so that I can pursue a number of my personal interests. I am pleased to continue to be involved with the company in my ongoing role at Sainsbury's Bank."
In other news James Brown, formerly trading director clothing, footwear, home and furniture for Littlewoods Shop Direct, has joined Sainsbury's as business unit director, Clothing. He will have responsibility for the continued growth of Tu in the clothing.
In addition, Robbie Feather is joining the retailer as business unit director, general merchandise, with responsibility for all general merchandise including homewares and electrical.
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