John Lewis Partnership names former River Island CEO Will Kernan as non-exec director

JLP said that Kernan joins the board with “a wealth of experience in the retail industry”.

He has held a number of senior leadership roles during his career, most recently chief executive at River Island until he stepped down in November last year.

Previously he served as chief executive at Wiggle and The White Company, as well as holding a range of roles at New Look over a 13-year period, including group managing director, group financial director and chief operating officer.

Kernan was also announced as chair at home decor and furniture brand Neptune last month and has been chair at luxury gift brand Biscuiteers since 2017.

JLP chair Sharon White said: “I’m delighted to welcome Will as the newest member of our Partnership board. We are fortunate to have his extensive experience and expertise, which will play a significant role in our ongoing transformation. As well as his outstanding retail experience, Will brings real interest and support for the Partnership model.”

In his new role, Kernan will work alongside the board’s other independent non-executives, including deputy chair Rita Clifton and chair of the audit and risk committee Nicky Dulieu.

Kernan succeeds Nish Kankiwala, who took over the CEO role in March 2023 after serving on the board for two years.