Ocado Solutions CEO Luke Jensen is to retire.
Parent company Ocado Group plc, which also oversees Ocado Technology, said Jensen will step down from the board with effect from 30th September 2023 to focus on external non-executive director positions.
Jensen has been CEO of Ocado Solutions since 2017 and a member of the board since 2018.
He has played an instrumental role in building the Ocado Solutions business globally. From signing the first international partnership with Bon Preu in 2017, to the most recent agreement with Lotte in Korea, Ocado Solutions is now partnered with 12 global food retailers.
“I am proud and honoured to have played a part in the transformation of Ocado from a UK retail company to a global leader in technology solutions,” said Jensen. “With the roll-out of its latest innovations underway, Ocado is better placed than ever to support its partners to win in their markets, and to forge new partnerships with leading grocers across the globe.
“I wish Ocado every success for the future.”
John Martin, current non-executive director at Ocado, will be appointed as CEO of Ocado Solutions on 1st September 2023, allowing a period of time for a thorough handover.
Martin will cease to be a member of the board and will step down as chair of the audit committee and as a member of the people committee.
Rachel Osborne, former CFO at Debenhams plc and Domino’s Pizza Group plc, is due to join the board as a non-exec director on 1st September 2023. She will now also assume the role of audit chair, with effect from the same date.
“Over the last six years, Luke has played a key role in our transformation into a global technology solutions business,” said Ocado CEO Tim Steiner.
“He leaves our Solutions business in a strong position to drive future growth, having recently established a global regional structure, with the appointments of regional presidents and the creation of a global partner success organisation.
“We wish him well and thank him for his contribution to Ocado. Luke will be supporting the transition over the coming months.”
Chairman Rick Haythornthwaite added: “I would like to thank Luke on behalf of the board for his valuable contribution to the company, the board and Ocado Solutions.
“I am delighted that John Martin will step into this role to deepen further the support of our clients as well as help shape our strategic direction and performance culture. John has extensive strategic, operational and financial management experience of running large international businesses.
“The board believes he is the right successor to Luke with the required credentials to build on a strong foundation.”