Announcement due later this year
The John Lewis Partnership is to appoint non-executive directors from outside the organisation for the first time in its 140-year history.

Today, the group confirmed that it is looking for two external candidates to join its board, but was unable to disclose names at present. The new appointments will be for a three-year term.

Chairman Sir Stuart Hampson said: 'Our board structure has served us well, but our current success makes us ever more alert to the continuous change within the markets we serve. The appointment of the non-executive directors will bring a different external experience to our debates and introduce fresh challenge and stimulus.'

The recruitment process is expected to be completed later in the summer.

The John Lewis business, which is co-owned by its 64,000 employees, comprises the Waitrose supermarket chain and John Lewis Department stores.

Topics