Sainsbury’s hires ex-John Lewis boss

SAINSBURY’S has hired the former boss of John Lewis to take charge of its clothing and homeware operations.

The supermarket giant said Paula Nickolds will take the role of general merchandise and clothing commercial director in June.

Ms Nickolds was ousted from department store chain John Lewis in January 2020 after 25 years, after she failed to improve the retailer’s profits.

The role will see Ms Nickolds lead Sainsbury’s general merchandise, Argos, Habitat and Tu clothing operations, taking over from Mike Luck.

She received an almost £1 million payout following her exit from John Lewis last year.

Ms Nickolds said: “I’m excited to be joining Sainsbury’s. It is a retailer with fantastic heritage that is trusted by customers for its great combination of quality and value. It’s an important and dynamic time for the retail sector and I am thrilled to join the team for the next phase of growth and innovation, as well as the opportunity to make a difference to millions of customers’ lives through the much-loved Argos, Habitat and Tu brands.”