John Lewis Partnership elects council president

The John Lewis Partnership has elected broadcaster and equality expert Trevor Phillips as its council president, the democratically elected body that represents the retailer’s employees and votes on key issues.

Phillips will take up his new role on March 25, replacing David Jones who is stepping down from the position. His appointment marks the first external appointment to the role since 1928.

Jane Burgess, Partners' Counsellor, said: “David has done a great job over the last five years and has played a central role in growing the Council's influence.

“I'm delighted to welcome Trevor to the Partnership Council. Trevor has a wealth of experience and will bring a valuable external perspective and an independent and authoritative voice to the core of our democracy.”

Phillips is currently deputy chair of the Board of the National Equality Standard, chair of Green Park Diversity Analytics, and a director of Webber Phillips and Pepper Productions. He is also the former chair of the Equality and Human Rights Commission.

Commenting on his appointment, Phillips added: “The extraordinary success of the unique employee ownership model has been central to making this company one of Britain's most admired and inspirational enterprises, and it's an enormous privilege to be elected to this role by the Partnership Council.”