John Lewis chair Dame Sharon White to step down in 2025 amid challenges

Dame Sharon White is stepping down as chair of John Lewis Partnership in early 2025 after a tenure beset by heavy losses, staff cuts, and store closures.
Under White's leadership, John Lewis has faced declining customer service, challenging market conditions, and the need to reinvent its brand.
White initiated a transformation plan to cut costs and diversify, but the turnaround has stumbled, delaying targets by two years.
John Lewis is searching for White's successor, considering outside investment, and reviewing the chairman's role.
The new chair will need to revive customer service and communication while adapting the retail business to difficult trading circumstances.