Majestic CEO Steve Lewis steps down
Majestic Wine has announced that its chief executive Steve Lewis has stepped down after 29 years with the business.
He has been succeeded by the company’s finance director Nigel Alldritt on an interim basis until a permanent replacement is found.
Alldritt has served on the Majestic board for 13 years with responsibility for a number of areas including finance, IT and logistics. Majestic’s non-executive chairman Phil Wrigley will attend monthly operating board meetings in addition to his current responsibilities on an interim basis.
In a statement, Majestic said it was entering a crucial stage of its development during which time it intends to further develop its multichannel offer while continuing to grow its commercial and fine wine sales channels.
The company said: “This busy next phase will require leadership commitment and continuity and with Steve Lewis having already served 29 years in the business, 16 years on the board and six years as chief executive, the board has decided that now is the best time to clarify the timing of his succession.”
Majestic said a search for a permanent replacement chief executive had already begun with a review of potential candidates underway.
Speaking of Lewis’s achievements Wrigley said: “Steve has made a huge contribution to Majestic Wine during his time with the business. By combining his significant leadership and retailing skills with his determination, dedication and sheer hard work he successfully rose through the ranks from graduate trainee manager in our Clapham store to chief executive.
“He took the helm in 2008 in the midst of the credit crunch and subsequent recession and successfully steered the business through very difficult times. He leaves the business today in good shape, with sales up 41% and profit up 42% during his time as chief executive, and with the business well positioned for the next phase of its development.”
