The John Lewis Partnership (JLP), overseeing the renowned UK retail brands Waitrose and John Lewis, has announced the permanent appointment of Andy Mounsey as Chief Financial Officer (CFO). Having served in this role on an interim basis since late 2024, Mounsey brings extensive financial expertise from his previous positions within JLP and a distinguished career at EY. His commitment to enhancing key financial indicators and improving customer sentiment highlights the transformative period for the company. Furthermore, JLP recently reported a remarkable increase in pre-tax profits, reflecting solid financial progress under Mounsey's interim leadership.
With his new position comes a seat on JLP’s board, effective immediately. Mounsey’s deep understanding of both JLP and the retail sector, coupled with his vast experience in senior finance roles, positions him ideally for driving long-term financial success. Chairman Jason Tarry praised Mounsey’s invaluable contributions during his interim tenure, expressing confidence in his ability to steer the company towards sustained prosperity.
A New Era Under Permanent Leadership
Andy Mounsey’s transition from interim CFO to a permanent role signifies a pivotal moment for the John Lewis Partnership. His prior roles within the organization, including group finance and strategy director, provide him with comprehensive insights into the company’s operations and challenges. Additionally, his 12-year tenure at EY adds a global perspective to his financial acumen, equipping him to navigate complex consumer market dynamics effectively.
Mounsey expressed enthusiasm about leading the financial strategy during this transformative phase for JLP. He highlighted the notable improvements in financial metrics and customer satisfaction, underscoring the importance of maintaining momentum. By leveraging his extensive experience and strategic vision, Mounsey aims to bolster the long-term financial resilience of the business, ensuring its continued success amidst evolving market conditions. This includes fostering collaboration across teams and implementing innovative approaches to enhance profitability and operational efficiency.
Strengthening Financial Performance and Leadership
The appointment coincides with impressive financial results, showcasing a threefold increase in profit before tax. Such achievements underscore the effectiveness of Mounsey’s interim leadership and set a strong foundation for future growth. Joining JLP’s board reinforces his integral role in shaping strategic decisions that align with the company’s broader objectives.
JLP’s chairman, Jason Tarry, emphasized Mounsey’s critical contributions during his interim period, noting his profound knowledge of the retail landscape and financial expertise. Tarry believes Mounsey’s leadership will play a crucial role in advancing the company’s financial strategies, ensuring sustainable success over the long term. As part of a dynamic leadership team, which also saw changes last year with Tarry assuming the chairmanship, Mounsey is poised to lead JLP through ongoing transformations, capitalizing on opportunities while addressing potential challenges head-on. His dedication to strengthening financial performance and enhancing customer experiences exemplifies the forward-thinking approach necessary for thriving in today’s competitive retail environment.