The John Lewis Partnership has announced the appointment of Rita Clifton as its next Deputy Chairman.
She will join the operator of the John Lewis and Waitrose chains in February having worked as a non-executive director in a range of consumer-facing sectors, including retail.
She currently holds non-executive roles with Nationwide Building Society and Ascential. She stepped down from the Board of ASOS earlier this year, having served six years, and has previously held non-executive roles with Dixons Retail, Emap, Bupa and the research firm Populus Group.
Sharon White, Chairman of the John Lewis Partnership, said: “I’m delighted that Rita is joining the Partnership as Deputy Chairman. She brings a wealth of leadership experience across an impressive career. Rita is a perfect fit for the Partnership and we’ll benefit greatly from her deep expertise in brand strategy and retail.
Clifton added: “Waitrose and John Lewis are two of the country’s most trusted brands, which are loved by customers. I’ve long admired the Partnership’s products, purpose and unique approach to doing business. I’m looking forward to joining the Board as the Partnership enters the next exciting phase in its development.”
Clifton replaces Keith Williams who stepped down from the group’s Board in April this year. Andy Martin had held the post on an interim basis. He will continue as non-executive director of the Partnership.
