M&S, Pladis and Applied Nutrition are making executive appointments

M&S appoints new chief financial officer​

Marks and Spencer Group has announced the appointment of Alison Dolan as its new chief financial officer.

Dolan will replace interim CFO Jeremy Townsend, who is scheduled to remain in the role until May 2025, with the exact date of Dolan’s arrival to be announced in due course. He will also serve on the group’s board of directors.

Dolan is currently CFO at property company Rightmove and has previously worked for companies including News UK and Sky.

According to financial results for the 52 weeks to March 30, 2024, M&S food sales were up 13% year-on-year.

Reflecting on the appointment, Dolan said she was delighted to have the opportunity to join M&S in what she described as an event “an exciting time for business.”​

“As an M&S shopper, I have always loved the brand and I am thrilled to be part of transforming the business in a way that ensures it thrives.”Dolan added.

“The scale and pace of change is significant, and there are many great opportunities ahead.”​

Stuart Machin, CEO of M&S, commented: “I am delighted to welcome Alison to M&S as our Chief Financial Officer. We are fortunate to have attracted someone of Alison’s caliber, who will be a fantastic addition to the leadership team and, with extensive experience in high-growth, digitally-led businesses, will help us in the next phase of M&S’s transformation.​

“I want to thank Jeremy for all his hard work and support. He will leave M&S in the best financial condition the company has been in for decades. But Jeremy isn’t going anywhere yet and will remain with us until May 2025 as planned.”​