Asda has appointed Jon Downes as vice president of ambient, as the supermarket continues to strengthen its commercial leadership team.

Downes will join the business in August and report to chief commercial officer Darren Blackhurst.

He arrives at Asda with experience across a number of major UK retailers, having held roles at Tesco, Morrisons and, most recently, Marks & Spencer, where he has served as food commercial operations director since 2024.

In his new role, Downes will take responsibility for Asda’s ambient category, with a remit spanning commercial performance, supplier relationships and the retailer’s value and quality offer.

Asda said the appointment forms part of its efforts to further strengthen its senior commercial team.

Blackhurst said: “Jon brings a wealth of experience and a strong track record of delivering commercial outcomes that create value for customers, colleagues and suppliers alike. I’m looking forward to working with him as we continue to strengthen our commercial proposition.”

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