Former Marks & Spencer co-CEO Katie Bickerstaffe and current Sage Group chief executive Steve Hare will join the board following the retailer’s AGM on 3 July 2025.
Provided their appointments are approved by the shareholders, Bickerstaffe will become a member of the corporate responsibility and sustainability committee and Hara will join the audit committee, while both will serve on the nomination and governance committee.
Bickerstaffe is currently the CEO for the UK and Ireland at Dixons Carphone, a role she has held for the past 13 years, while she previously served as co-CEO at M&S. She has also held roles at Somerfield, Dyson, PepsiCo and Unilever.
As for Hare, he is currently the CEO of Sage Group and previously worked at Apax Partners as operating partner and co-head of the portfolio support group.
“Retail is an incredibly competitive sector and Sainsbury’s has a long-standing reputation for delivering exceptional value and quality to its customers,” commented Bickerstaffe.
“I’m excited to join the board and help Sainsbury’s to foster further innovation and excellence.”
Hare added: “I am thrilled to be joining the Sainsbury’s board at a very important time for the business. The Next Level Sainsbury’s strategy is an exciting vision for the future, and I look forward to working with the Board and leadership team to continue creating value for shareholders.”
The appointments were also greeted by Sainsbury’s chair Martin Scicluna, who said he was delighted with the news.
“Their extensive experience and leadership in retail and digital businesses will be invaluable to our board,” Scicluna continued.
“Katie’s strong perspectives on digital transformation and Steve’s expertise in leading tech businesses will greatly contribute to our strategic direction. We look forward to their insights and contributions as we continue to drive Sainsbury’s forward.”
Elsewhere, Brian Cassin has notified the board that he will not seek re-election as senior independent director at the AGM after nine years. The board has appointed Adrian Hennah, who has been a board member since April 2021, to succeed Cassin effective 3 July.
“I would like to thank Brian for his commitment and dedication to Sainsbury’s,” Scicluna added.
“He has been on the board for nine years and throughout his time with us he has provided invaluable leadership. We wish him all the best for the future.”
