John Lewis’ Managing Director Peter Ruis (pictured left) is stepping down to “pursue new projects” after less than three years with the business. He has overseen transformational investment in John Lewis stores, and attracted “exciting” brands and developed new propositions. Kernan was chosen to take on John Lewis’ Managing Director role as he has held several senior retail leadership positions over a 35-year career. Kernan also held a 13-year tenure at fashion company New Look, undertaking various roles from Group Financial Director and Group Trading Director to COO and Group Managing Director. John Lewis Partnership is now looking to appoint a successor to Kernan’s role as Non-Executive Director to the board.