Ocado has promoted Hannah Gibson to CEO, who was previously the chief product officer of its technology division.
Gibson, who has spent a decade at the online-only Ocado, replaces Mel Smith, who revealed she would step down in July.
She will take over on 20 September.
Gibson has had experience across customer, commercial and technology roles at Ocado and currently sets the strategy and drives forward the Ocado Smart Platform for the group’s partners including Ocado Retail, the joint venture between Ocado and M&S.
She previously lead Ocado Zoom, launching the delivery service in just two years. Gibson took Ocado Zoom from concept to launch in two years and the service is now successfully expanding across the UK. Before this, she was head of product and merchandising on the Ocado Retail leadership team.
“Ocado Retail has big ambitions and, with its foundations now firmly in place, is well-prepared for faster growth in the years to come,” Ocado Retail chairman Tim Steiner said.
“I am confident that Hannah is the right leader to deliver on these ambitions, whilst also being able to navigate the nearer-term challenges associated with the macroeconomic environment.
At Ocado Group, we have consistently benefited from her outstanding leadership and laser focus on the customer proposition and I have no doubt that this will continue.”
Newly appointed CEO Hannah Gibson said: “I look forward to working more closely with the teams across Ocado Retail, Ocado Group and M&S to meet the market challenges of today and to further strengthen our leading online grocery proposition.
“Together, we will continue to focus on delivering the best service, range and value to our growing customer base, and seize the incredible opportunities ahead.”
Marks & Spencer CEO Stuart Machin also gave his thoughts: “Hannah combines a clear passion for product and customer, with an exceptional working knowledge of Ocado’s proprietary technology,” he said.
”This experience makes her the ideal candidate to unlock the huge potential that remains in our joint venture and lead our partnership into the next phase of growth.”
