Name: David Smith
Was: Executive people director at Asda
Now: Owner of High Performance Through Engagement
Years worked in grocery: 15


Career background: Smith worked for 19 years in the UK coal industry. He joined Asda in the early turnaround years, initially as head of colleague relations, then retail HR director, followed by 10 years on the executive board. He left in 2009.

What are you doing now? “I have been developing a portfolio career. I split my time between consulting and speaking engagements, mostly about culture change and high performance. I am also chairman of the Institute for Employment Studies and I also mentor CEOs and board directors.”

What inspired you to write your book Asda Magic?:“I lived through Asda’s turnaround and was there when it came out as the best place to work in The Sunday Times. I felt I had to write about the lessons I learnt. Feedback has been exceptional. BRC CEO Stephen Robertson said: “It is a coup for Smith that in every chapter he has reflections from Asda alumni: King, Baker, deNunzio, Mason, Bond, Cheesewright, Leighton, Norman. He is bang on when he observes that few businesses are blessed with the opportunity of near bankruptcy and the momentum it brings for change.”

Do you miss grocery?: “I miss the cut and thrust. There is something about getting your results by the hour and realising quickly what is and isn’t working. It gives you the advantage of becoming a quick analyser in other situations where the industry context is not quite so dynamic.”

Will you come back?: “I don’t think you can come back, and my intention was to make a serious change of direction in my 50’s, which I am really enjoying. However, I do dip back into retail when consulting/speaking or mentoring.”

Topics