British retailer Tesco announces appointment of non-executive chair

Murphy has previously served as a non-executive director of companies including British American Tobacco plc, Merlin Entertainments plc, Novar plc, Abbey National plc and Reckitt Benckiser plc.

Murphy’s executive career was spent in retail and other customer-focused businesses in senior leadership and commercial roles. Most recently he served as the group chief executive of Kingfisher plc. He was previously chief executive of Carlton Communications plc, Exel plc and Greencore Group plc. He was also previously the chair of The Blackstone Group International Partners LLP, Blackstone's principal European entity.

“The board conducted an extensive search for a new chair and we are delighted that Gerry is joining the board and taking on the chair role. He was the unanimous choice of the board and will bring to our board a record of strong and effective boardroom leadership and a deep understanding of retail and consumer-focused businesses and corporate governance. I know he will be a great support to Ken Murphy and our management team, who welcome his appointment,” Byron Grote, interim chair, said.

“I am delighted to join the Tesco board as its chair. Tesco has a very important role to play in its markets, serving customers, communities and the planet a little better every day. I’m fully committed to helping Ken and the Tesco team deliver on this purpose and very excited about the strategic opportunities for growth across the Tesco group. I also want to pay tribute to my predecessor, John Allan, whom I have known for many years. John has left Tesco with its business, management and board in great shape and fit for the future,” Murphy said.

Upon Murphy’s appointment, Byron Grote will step down from his role as interim chair and revert to his previous position as senior independent director and chair of the audit committee. Murphy will become the chair of the nominations and governance committee upon appointment.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (RR)