M&S names non-exec as strategy and transformation director

The retailer has appointed Bickerstaffe, who has been a non-executive director since July 2018, to helm its strategy and transformation plans.

Bickerstaffe will succeed Melanie Smith, who was formerly strategy director before being appointed as chief executive of Ocado’s retail division following the joint venture between the online grocer and M&S.

Bickerstaffe, who has previously held roles at PepsiCo, Dyson and acted as chief executive for Dixons Carphone’s UK and Ireland division until April 2018, will take up her new role on April 27.

Marks & Spencer chief executive Steve Rowe said: “Katie has been a great help to me and the wider management team in her role as a non-executive director and I am delighted that she will now be part of the executive team. Her experience in leading roles at UK food and non-food retailers and track record of delivering large-scale change will be invaluable as we accelerate our transformation.”

Bickerstaffe added: “Marks & Spencer is a fantastic brand with huge potential. I’m really looking forward to working with the management team to step-up the pace of the transformation.”