The John Lewis Partnership has announced that Peter Ruis has decided to step down as managing director of John Lewis to pursue new projects, and Will Kernan, currently a non-executive board member of the Partnership, will take on the John Lewis MD role.
Peter returned to John Lewis in January 2024, after a number of retail leadership roles, having previously been with the retailer for nine years – latterly as buying and brand director.
He has led a significant modernisation of the brand, including the return of its 100-year-old ‘Never Knowingly Undersold’ promise, investment in stores, the introduction of new brands and propositions, and significant changes to its digital platform and search capability.
Will has held several senior retail leadership positions over a 35-year career. He has served as CEO of River Island, The White Company and Wiggle, and spent 13 years at New Look, holding various posts including group financial director, group trading director, COO and group managing director.
Most recently, Will was chairman of Neptune, supporting the furniture and kitchen retailer’s transformation. He joined the John Lewis Partnership’s board as a non-executive director in 2023.
Peter said the business was now “on a much stronger footing” following nearly three years of investment and modernisation, while Will said there was “significant headroom for growth” as he prepares to lead the team.
Peter will remain with the business until September 6, with Will taking up the position in mid-September, ahead of the peak trading period.
Jason Tarry, chairman of the John Lewis Partnership, commented that Peter had “done a fantastic job” and Will was “perfectly placed” to take John Lewis into its next phase of development and growth.