John Lewis Partnership, a British retail giant, has announced the appointment of Peter Ruis as the new executive director of its department store business, effective January 15. Ruis, who previously worked at John Lewis from 2005 to 2013, returns to the company after an 11-year absence, bringing with him a wealth of experience in leading high street chains. During his previous tenure, Ruis played a key role in establishing the company’s brand and product offerings, which have become iconic among UK consumers.
Ruis’ extensive background in retail leadership makes him an ideal candidate to drive the turnaround of John Lewis’ department store business, which has been struggling to reverse a decline in sales and profits. The company’s new CEO, Nish Kankiwala, welcomed Ruis’ return, highlighting his “clear and proven passion for the John Lewis brand and the Partnership model.” Ruis has already expressed his excitement to return to John Lewis, citing the company’s iconic brand, loved and trusted by millions of customers across the UK.
As executive director, Ruis will be tasked with leading the next phase of transformation for the department store business, leveraging his deep understanding of customers, brands, and product to revitalize the business. He will be working closely with the leadership team to develop and implement a strategy to restore the company’s reputation as a leading retail destination.
The appointment of Ruis comes after Naomi Simcock, who filled the role on an interim basis for almost a year, will assume a new role as operations director for John Lewis. Simcock has thoroughly enjoyed her time leading the company and is looking forward to continuing to be part of the John Lewis leadership team, supporting partners and ensuring department stores and supply chain deliver for customers.
John Lewis (Via John Lewis/Twitter)
Ruis’ return is seen as a significant development in John Lewis’ efforts to revitalize its department store business. With his extensive experience and passion for the brand, Ruis is well-equipped to drive the turnaround and restore the company’s reputation. As John Lewis Partnership navigates the challenges of the competitive retail terrain, the appointment of Ruis is a promising sign that the company is committed to regaining its position as a market leader.
The company’s department store business has been facing significant challenges in recent years, with sales and profits declining. However, with Ruis at the helm, the company is hoping to reverse this trend and return to its former glory. His experience in leading high street chains and developing brand and product offerings will be crucial in driving the turnaround.
Ruis’ appointment is also seen as a vote of confidence in the John Lewis Partnership model, which has been praised for its commitment to employees and customer-centric approach. The company’s philosophy of creating a workplace that is “a great place to work” has been instrumental in building a loyal customer base, and Ruis is well-placed to continue this tradition.
In his new role, Ruis will be responsible for leading the company’s efforts to adapt to the changing retail terrain. This includes embracing new technologies and digital platforms, as well as investing in employee training and development. Ruis has a reputation for being a hands-on leader, who is passionate about building strong relationships with customers and employees.
The appointment of Ruis is also seen as a bid to attract new customers and retain existing ones. With his deep understanding of customers and brands, Ruis is well-equipped to develop a strategy that appeals to a wider audience and drives sales growth. His experience in leading high street chains has also given him a unique insight into the competitive retail terrain, allowing him to develop a strategy that sets John Lewis apart from its competitors.
The appointment of Peter Ruis as executive director of John Lewis’ department store business is a significant development for the company. With his extensive experience in leading high street chains and developing brand and product offerings, Ruis is well-equipped to drive the turnaround and restore the company’s reputation. As John Lewis Partnership navigates the challenges of the competitive retail terrain, the appointment of Ruis is a promising sign that the company is committed to regaining its position as a market leader.
