Justin King, the former Sainsbury’s boss will be joining the Marks & Spencer board as a non-executive director.
The retail chief will join M&S at the beginning of January in order to “navigate the challenges ahead” for the retailer.
King has worked for over a decade at Sainsbury’s. Before this, he was part of the turnaround strategy at Asda whilst also previously working for the M&S food division.
King will work with M&S boss Steve Rowe and has said that he looks forward to “supporting Steve in the turnaround that he is leading”.
“Having worked there 15 years ago, M&S has a very special place in my affections. I look forward to joining the Board and supporting Steve in the turnaround that he is leading,” he said.
Rowe said: “As we navigate the challenges ahead it will be enormously helpful to have his experience, wisdom and insight on the board. Many colleagues remember his time at M&S and will warmly welcome him back.”
M&S chairman, Archie Norman added: “Justin’s appointment completes a very significant reorientation of the board in the last year. He will be a great addition to a strong team.”
M&S has reported a fall in sales this year amid tough trading and Brexit uncertainty.
Pre-tax profits at the retail giant slumped 62% to £66.8 million in May after a restructuring plan cost £514.1 million that included £321 million to pay for the first phase of its store closure plan.
Lee Wild, who is the head of equity strategy at Interactive Investor, said: “The Marks & Spencer PR machine is in full swing and Steve Rowe is telling investors exactly what they want to hear.”
“The company has been in desperate need of a major overhaul for years and, under a new and more dynamic leadership team, is getting just that.”
“M&S is admitting its shortcomings and promising to deliver what investors have been screaming at it to do for years.”
Shares in M&S (LON: MKS) are trading +0.47% at 277,10 (1231GMT).
