Martin Scicluna named by Sainsbury’s as chairman-designate

Sainsbury’s has appointed Martin Scicluna as its new non-executive chairman with a view to assuming the chairman role in 2019.

He will work closely with outgoing chairman David Tyler during a handover period, and Sainsbury’s expects Scicluna to assume his new position in March 2019.

The group announced in April that it had begun a search for a new chairman, which was led by senior independent director Dame Susan and the the group’s nomination committee. She said: “David has been an outstanding steward of Sainsbury’s during his time as chairman, providing invaluable strategic counsel and guidance, including on the acquisition of Home Retail Group and the proposed combination of Sainsbury’s and Asda.

“We are grateful for his substantive and important ongoing contribution. Martin brings a breadth of experience and leadership and we look forward to welcoming him to the Sainsbury’s board at this pivotal time for the business.”

Commenting on his appointment, Scicluna said: “I’m delighted to join Sainsbury’s, a company I have long admired for its clear customer focus and its strong values. Mike Coupe and his management team have positioned the business for a successful future of delivering significant value for shareholders, customers and other stakeholders.”