Ocado appoints Adam Warby as new chair amidst expansion.
- Warby brings expertise from global technology leadership.
- Transition to occur between November and December 2024.
- He replaces Rick Haythornthwaite, who steps down due to other commitments.
- CEO Tim Steiner highlights the importance of this strategic period.
Ocado has appointed Adam Warby as its new chair at a significant time in the company’s development. Warby, currently the chair of executive search firm Heidrick & Struggles, will join Ocado on November 1st as an independent non-executive director. He is expected to fully assume his role as chair on December 1st, succeeding Rick Haythornthwaite.
This transition comes as Ocado experiences a pivotal moment of expansion into new markets and sectors. CEO Tim Steiner acknowledges Warby’s expertise in global technology and consulting as crucial for the company’s ambitions. Steiner emphasizes that Ocado’s cutting-edge technology is operational with 11 out of their 13 global partners, reinforcing the company’s position in the market.
Warby’s predecessor, Rick Haythornthwaite, has been instrumental in overseeing Ocado’s growth as a global technology business. His departure is due to his commitments as chair of NatWest Group, but his strong leadership and valuable advice are widely appreciated.
Warby expresses enthusiasm for his new role, highlighting Ocado as a unique and innovative force within the UK. He is eager to collaborate with what he describes as a visionary leadership team and skilled colleagues. His focus will be on growing the business and increasing shareholder value, aligning well with Ocado’s forward-thinking objectives.
Adam Warby’s appointment signals a forward-thinking stride in Ocado’s ongoing journey to expand its technological and market footprint.
