Morrisons poaches Halfords’ chief information officer

Barsby, who has spent three years at the car parts and cycling retailer, is set to join Morrisons as chief technology director in September.

Her appointment comes amid a drive by the supermarket to employ more women in senior management positions. 

Barsby, who has also worked for Sainsbury’s and the Financial Services Authority, will replace Dan Beecham, who is leaving Morrisons to return to his native Australia to be with his family. 

A Morrisons spokesman said: “We are delighted that Anna Barsby will be joining us to continue moving our technology function forward.

“She brings a wealth of valuable experience which will be important for the ongoing improvement of Morrisons’ technology.”

The spokeswoman said it had been Beecham’s long-held plan to return to Australia after three years in the role. 

A Halfords spokeswoman said a successor for Barsby would be announced “in due course”. 

The retailer earlier this year slashed its bonuses for senior management after weak winter sales. Last week it posted a 2.6% rise in fourth-quarter like-for-likes. 

The spokeswoman added: “We thank Anna for her commitment to Halfords over the past three years, and for leading our successful technology transformation, and wish her well in the future.”