Retail veteran Archie Norman has been appointed to help advise the government on how it supports and deals with the business world.
The former Asda boss, who is credited with turning round the grocery chain in the 1990s, will take up the role of non-executive director at the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy later this month.
Norman will work with Business and Energy Secretary Greg Clark to deliver a “comprehensive long-term strategy” for the UK’s industrial and commercial future, the department said.
Retail meets politics
Norman knows the political system well, having been Tory MP for Tunbridge Wells between 1997 and 2005.
He is also a former finance boss at Kingfisher and spent six years as ITV chairman, before stepping down in January.
Norman is also an adviser to Australian retail giant Wesfarmers and is helping with the launch of its Bunnings DIY fascia in the UK.
“I’m delighted the Business and Energy Secretary has asked me to take up this position and I will do all I can to support Greg Clark and the government at this important time for the British economy,” said Norman.
Clark added that Norman’s “wide and admired business experience” will be of “huge value” to him and the government in working out its industrial strategy.
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