UK-based retailer Marks and Spencer (M&S) has appointed Thinus Keeve as its new retail director, effective from 6 June 2025, to boost its strategy and strengthen leadership.
In a statement on LinkedIn, M&S chief executive Stuart Machin said that Keeve brings with him a wealth of experience from Australia, having held several senior leadership roles at Coles supermarket.
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His responsibilities at M&S will encompass all stores across the UK and the Republic of Ireland, in addition to central store operations.
As part of his integration into the company, Keeve will spend his initial month working within stores to forge strong connections with colleagues and customers.
Keeve will then join the M&S executive committee (ExCo) in July, ensuring that store operations remain central to the company’s decision-making process.
Keeve will report to operations director Sacha Berendji.
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By GlobalDataBerendji is tasked with the oversight of retail, property, security and business continuity, as well as heading the store rotation programme, a pivotal element in the company’s growth plans.
In April 2025, M&S announced plans to invest £90m to open 17 new and revamped stores in London up to 2026.
The company’s growth strategy includes the launch of foodhalls in high-profile locations such as Covent Garden, Clapham Common, Putney and Fulham Broadway, pending planning approvals.
M&S previously pledged £95m to increase its retail pay offer, despite facing additional financial pressures due to recent government measures such as an increase in employer National Insurance contributions.
