Ocado co-founder Jason Gissing to step down
Ocado has announced that its co-founder Jason Gissing will retire from the board and leave the business following its Annual General Meeting in May.
In statement, the company said that Gissing wanted to spend more time with his four young children and focus full-time on a number environmental and social causes that he is passionate about.
Ocado will use the next few months to ensure a smooth transfer of Gissing’s responsibilities.
Tim Steiner, fellow co-founder and Ocado chief executive, said: “I have worked with Jason for 20 years. Jason has led the development of our brand, and helped shape the culture inside Ocado and the way we are perceived by our customers. After our IPO he focused almost exclusively on marketing and cultural matters before taking on the role of commercial director.
Never Miss a Retail Update!“He has been an invaluable partner and friend to me and I will miss his daily humour and insights. We all wish him the very best.”
Sir Stuart Rose, Ocado chairman, added: “Jason and Tim started Ocado from scratch just over 14 years ago. Today the business is valued at £3 billion, employing thousands of people, helping consumers around the UK in their busy lives. They have laid the foundations of a world-class business. To create a new supermarket in such a competitive market place is an amazing achievement. Jason should be very proud of Ocado. I wish him every success in the future.”
