John Lewis Managing Director Peter Ruis to Step Down

Peter Ruis is stepping down as managing director of John Lewis, the British department store chain, after less than three years in the role. The departure, announced on August 10, 2026, comes just days after the parent company's chairman warned of "really tough trading" conditions ahead. Ruis will leave the business on September 6, 2026, and will be succeeded by Will Kernan, a former chief executive of River Island and The White Company, who will take up the position in mid-September.

The leadership change was described by the John Lewis Partnership as part of an orderly succession plan. Ruis returned to the retailer in January 2024, having previously served as its buying director. During his tenure, he oversaw a significant modernization program, including the reintroduction of the iconic "Never Knowingly Undersold" price promise and the launch of an £800 million store investment plan. He also led initiatives to refresh the brand's digital platform and introduce new retail and hospitality concepts, such as the Topshop brand and the Platter restaurant.

"After nearly three years of significant investment and modernisation, the business is now on a much stronger footing," Ruis...