Tesco managing director of food Gordon Gafa is to leave the supermarket at Christmas, after more than 15 years with the retailer.

Gafa, who has held the food MD role since 2024, will depart at the end of the year, The Grocer reported. His exit comes as Tesco continues to navigate a highly competitive grocery market, with supermarkets under pressure to balance pricing, investment and customer demand.

Gafa joined Tesco in 2011 and has held a number of senior roles across the business during his career. Before becoming food MD, he was chief commercial officer for Tesco UK and Ireland, having previously served as commercial director for fresh food.

His career at Tesco has spanned a period of significant change for the supermarket, including the expansion of its online operation, the development of its Clubcard Prices proposition and renewed investment in its food ranges and customer proposition.

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As food MD, Gafa has been responsible for Tesco’s core grocery operation, covering areas including buying, merchandising and product development.

His departure will leave Tesco facing a senior leadership change at a time when the UK grocery sector remains fiercely contested. Retailers continue to compete on price while responding to changing shopping habits, rising operating costs and growing demand for value.

Tesco has strengthened its position in the grocery market in recent years, with the retailer repeatedly highlighting the role of value and range in attracting shoppers.

The supermarket has yet to announce who will succeed Gafa in the food MD role.

Gafa’s exit also represents the latest change among senior grocery executives as retailers reshape their leadership teams to respond to a more challenging operating environment.

Tesco has not yet confirmed Gafa’s next move or whether he will take up another role within the retail sector.