Ocado Group is in the process of selecting a new chairman, and Adam Warby, an ex-Microsoft executive, has emerged as a leading candidate.
- Warby is presently chairing the board of KKR, a private equity firm, which strengthens his leadership credentials.
- He has previously occupied significant roles within Microsoft, IBM, and currently chairs SoftwareONE, adding to his extensive experience.
- Current chair Rick Haythornthwaite will step down due to commitments with NatWest, necessitating a swift selection process.
- A formal announcement regarding Warby’s potential appointment could be expected as early as November.
Ocado Group is actively considering Adam Warby, a former executive with profound experience at Microsoft, as a potential candidate for its chairman position. Warby’s current role as the chairman of the board at KKR, a prominent private equity firm, further enhances his reputation as a seasoned leader suitable for this significant role within Ocado Group.
Warby also chairs SoftwareONE, a software company, and has previously held various strategic positions at Microsoft and IBM. This extensive leadership portfolio marks him as a fitting successor to Rick Haythornthwaite, the current chairman at Ocado.
The decision for this appointment comes as Rick Haythornthwaite, who has been instrumental in enhancing Ocado’s corporate governance and strategic direction over the past three years, announced his intentions to step down. His decision is driven by increased responsibilities at NatWest Group, where he will focus his efforts after departing Ocado.
Rick Haythornthwaite’s resignation necessitates the appointment of a new chair, with Ocado’s board initiating the search earlier in April 2024. Tim Steiner, Ocado’s Chief Executive, expressed regret over Haythornthwaite’s departure but acknowledged the need for a succession plan. Steiner commented, “Rick has done a great job strengthening corporate governance, providing the executive team with wise advice…”
According to insiders, the confirmation of Warby’s appointment might occur as early as November, signalling a swift decision-making process by Ocado to ensure a smooth transition in its leadership structure.
The strategic move by Ocado to consider Adam Warby for chairman underscores the company’s commitment to sustaining strong leadership amidst executive transitions.
