Morrisons

Morrisons has promoted James Badger to group commercial and manufacturing director.

Badger will take up the role on 10 October with his appointment coming a week after Morrisons chief operating officer Trevor Strain confirmed he was leaving the business.

Strain had taken on the commercial director duties following the departure of Andy Atkinson in June.

Online and wholesale director Badger has been with Morrisons for nine-and-a-half years and served in his current role since July 2020. Before that he held roles with the retailer including group finance controller and finance director – supermarkets. Prior to joining Morrisons Badger spent nine years at Tesco.

His promotion will see him join the Morrisons Executive. He will combine responsibility for the entire commercial division as well as the 19 manufacturing and food-making operations. 

He will also retain overall responsibility for the online, convenience and wholesale channels.

“I’m very much looking forward to taking on my new responsibilities at such an important moment for our customers as the cost of living crisis continues,” said Badger. “As a food-maker and shopkeeper we have a unique position within the British grocery market with opportunities to drive value for money and to support customers during a difficult period.” 

Morrisons CEO David Potts said: “James has shown himself to be a highly capable leader with a record of building great teams and delivering strong growth. I’m delighted to welcome him to his new role and I’m confident that he will continue to make a very strong contribution to the success of the business.”

Morrisons has also promoted Joseph Sutton to convenience, online & wholesale director, reporting to Badger, while Matt Kelleher, in addition to his existing remit for technology, supply chain development and productivity, will now also take responsibility for Morrisons’ operations development programme.