John Lewis appoints new executive director for people

John Lewis has appointed Nikki Humphrey as executive director for people.

Humphrey joins from Virgin Atlantic where she held the position of chief people officer. She succeeds Tracey Killen to the position, who has retired after a 38 year career at the partnership.

Effective 1 October, Humphrey will be responsible for developing and delivering a people strategy for the company’s 80,000 partners. 

Humphrey said: “I’m very excited to be joining the partnership at this time. It’s a huge privilege to lead the people team and the people strategy for the 80,000 partners. 

“I’m really looking forward to working together with partners, to shape the future and continue to provide the wonderful experience that is so valued by customers.”

Sharon White, partner and chairman of the John Lewis Partnership, said: “This appointment comes at a time where we are working hard to develop our people strategy. 

“Nikki’s impressive experience will help ensure the partnership continues to be a great place to work for current and future Partners, that both rewards and develops partners, provides exceptional health and wellbeing support and improves our diversity and inclusion strategy, truly reflecting the communities we serve.”

The news comes as John Lewis announced the appointment of Pippa Wicks as executive director.

Wicks joins from the Co-op Group where she held the position of deputy chief executive and will start her new role in August. 

In her new role she will be responsible for trading, merchandising, marketing and developing propositions and services for John Lewis shops and its online platform.