John Lewis appoints Interim Executive Director for Finance as it unveils new circular design collection

The John Lewis Partnership has appointed Andy Mounsey as Interim Executive Director for Finance, effective 1 July 2024.

Currently serving as Group Finance & Strategy Director, Mounsey has been with John Lewis for 12 years in a number of senior finance roles.

His new position will "facilitate a smooth handover" from Bérangère (Bey) Michel, current Executive Director for Finance, who announced in April that she would be leaving the partnership after 16 years.

Nish Kankiwala, John Lewis Partnership’s Chief Executive Officer, said: "Andy is a highly experienced and valued member of our finance team, with a deep understanding of the partnership and the retail sector.

"I am delighted that Andy is able to support the John Lewis Partnership during this interim phase to ensure a smooth transition and our continued focus on executing against our transformation plan."

Mounsey added: "I’m incredibly privileged to be taking on this role. The partnership‘s finances are in a healthy position - enabling us to invest significantly across the business for our customers.

"I’m looking forward to working with the John Lewis Partnership's board and executive team to continue our transformation journey."

The process to recruit a permanent Executive Director for Finance at the John Lewis Partnership is now under way.

John Lewis has also revealed it is launching a new 20-piece ‘circular’ collection in phase one of an environmental overhaul of its products, with the aim to "minimise waste and maximise longevity".

The collection, which includes nightwear and filled bedding, aims to support the department store's commitment to ensure that 100% of new own-brand products are designed with circularity in mind by 2028.

Kathleen Mitchell, Commercial Director at John Lewis, said: "We are constantly looking at changes we can make in our bid to combine style and sustainability for our customers. We know they want products that look good and that last, and that’s exactly what these designs offer.

"We’re continuing to learn about how to design more efficiently and to create products that our customers can trust to be good for both their pockets and the planet. It’s been incredibly insightful seeing the circular framework and strategy put to practice."