Marks and Spencer clothing boss quits

Marks and Spencer has confirmed that John Dixon, the head of its non-food division, is to leave the business to “pursue career opportunities outside of the company,” and that he will step down from the board with immediate effect and will leave the company on a date to be agreed.

The clothing retailer said that Dixon, who is leaving to become chief executive of another company, will be replaced by Steve Rowe, who will take on responsibilities for general merchandise, while Andy Adcock, currently trading director of food will step up to be director of food, reporting to Marc Bolland on an interim basis.

Commenting on the news, Robert Swannell, chairman of Marks and Spencer Group plc said: “On behalf of the Board, I would like to thank John for his service over many years and his many contributions to the business in that time. I am delighted that Steve has been appointed to head up General Merchandise and wish him every success in his new role.”

Dixon added: “I have thoroughly enjoyed many happy and successful years at M&S. I now have the opportunity to become a Chief Executive and have therefore resigned from this great company. I wish it, and all my colleagues, every continued success.”

It was wildly considered that Dixon, who has headed the non-food business since 2012, would be the most likely candidate to succeed Marc Bolland as CEO, his departure is adding to the speculation on who the next successor will be with Rowe now becoming the front runner.