The John Lewis Partnership has made two key appointments with Anna Milne becoming director of merchandising, and Helen Webb chief people officer.
Anna Milne
Milne takes up her newly-created role on the management board on 17 November, reporting to chief commercial officer Vikki Kavanagh.
She brings nearly 20 years’ experience in retail, “curating exceptional product ranges” while “bring[ing] extensive knowledge of the fashion industry” having worked in merchandising roles at House of Fraser, ASOS, Jules B and The Outnet.
Most recently, she has was merchandising director for the luxury lifestyle brands Net-A-Porter and Mr Porter.
Kavanagh said: “Anna will be a fantastic addition to our team, bringing a wealth of experience to the role, and her leadership will be crucial for ensuring that our shops are fully stocked with a fantastic assortment of inspiring products.”
Meanwhile, Webb, who will take up her post on 24 November, brings significant experience in people leadership and organisational development, having spent 30 years in senior people roles across retail and other sectors. She was most recently chief people officer at WHSmith and has worked at Sainsbury’s, latterly as Central Retail Director, and M&S.
She replaces Jo Rackham, who was interim chief people officer for 18 months.
