Asda COO tipped to get the top job to replace Andy Bond
In a surprise move, Asda is reported to have appointed its chief operating officer Andy Clarke as its new chief executive, following Andy Bond’s decision to quit in April.
Bond, who has been with the retailer for 16 years, is to become the chairman of the Wal-Mart owned supermarket giant.
Clarke’s annointment follows the resignation of merchandising officer and managing director Darren Blackhurst, who was being touted as the favourite insider to get the top job, and who joined the retailer from Tesco nearly five years ago.
It is thought a formal announcement will be made early next week.
Asda reported record results in 2009, with like-for-like sales up 6%, but its market share has been slipping in recent months due to strong competition in the UK.
This story first appeared on pitch
