Former Asda boss Archie Norman linked with top job at Marks & Spencer

The former ITV chairman Archie Norman has reportedly been approached to be the next boss of Marks & Spencer.

M&S is understood to be aiming to replace retiring chairman Robert Swannell as early as the annual shareholder meeting in July, according to a report in the Mail on Sunday.

Former Asda boss Archie Norman outside the Killingbeck, Leeds, branch    Photo: Steve Ridingplaceholder image
Former Asda boss Archie Norman outside the Killingbeck, Leeds, branch Photo: Steve Riding

Mr Norman was credited, alongside serial entrepreneur Allan Leighton, with turning around the fortunes of the Leeds-based supermarket chain Asda in the 1990s.

A spokesman for M&S told The Yorkshire Post: “We wouldn’t comment on rumour or speculation.

“As announced in December, our chairman intends to retire in 2017. The search for his successor is underway.”

News you can trust since 1754
Follow us
© 2026 Iconic Media Group Ltd. All rights reserved.Cookie SettingsTerms and ConditionsPrivacy notice