M&S appoints new food MD

UK retailer Marks and Spencer (M&S) has named Alex Freudmann as its new managing director of food, taking over from Stuart Machin who is now M&S chief executive.

The chain announced yesterday (20 June) that Freudmann, who is currently the managing director of Australian alcohol retailer Dan Murphy, would lead the supermarket’s grocery arm from November.

As of 1 November, CEO Machin will pass on his responsibilities overseeing the food division to Freudmann. 

Freudmann’s CV includes roles at the UK’s largest supermarket Tesco and Australian supermarket chain Coles.

Freudmann said: “M&S Food is a unique and very special business with world-leading food values, and I’ve always had huge respect for the brand. I’ve watched how the business has been transformed over the past few years from afar. 

“The team has done a great job of building a bigger, better Food business through investing in trusted value and core categories while maintaining the outstanding quality and innovation the brand is famous for.”

Stuart Machin, chief executive officer, said: “Alex will bring a great deal of experience and passion to our business. He has worked in food retailing for nearly two decades and in all of his roles he’s been a change-maker - bringing intellect, pace and energy. He will be a great addition to our top team as we work together to deliver the next stage of our transformation.”