M&S Appoints Kevin Bennett as New Food Logistics Director and Gist CEO

Marks & Spencer (M&S) has announced the promotion of Kevin Bennett from his role as head of logistics in the Clothing & Home division to the position of M&S Food logistics director and CEO of Gist. This strategic move underscores M&S’s commitment to enhancing its operational efficiency and supply chain effectiveness.

The Role of Gist in M&S Food’s Supply Chain Modernization

Since M&S’s acquisition of Gist in 2022, the logistics company has played a pivotal role in the modernization of M&S Food’s supply chain. The integration of Gist has enabled the retailer to implement a range of innovative solutions, including a new forecasting and ordering system designed to optimize inventory management and streamline operations. The rollout of this system is nearing completion, reflecting M&S’s ongoing efforts to enhance its supply chain capabilities.

Kevin Bennett’s Extensive Experience

Kevin Bennett’s appointment is backed by an impressive track record in supply chain management. Over the past two-and-a-half years, he has been instrumental in leading significant transformation initiatives within the Clothing & Home division at M&S. Prior to joining M&S, Bennett served as logistics director at Kingfisher Group and B&Q, where he honed his skills in managing complex logistics operations.

Additionally, Bennett brings over 25 years of experience from his tenure at Wincanton, a leading logistics and supply chain services company. His extensive background in third-party logistics positions him uniquely to lead Gist and drive M&S Food’s logistics strategy forward.

Transition and Future Direction

Nick Hay, the current CEO of Gist, has decided to leave M&S to pursue other opportunities. His departure marks the end of a significant chapter for Gist, during which considerable progress was made under his leadership. Alex Freudmann, Managing Director of M&S Food, acknowledged Hay’s contributions, stating, “Under Nick’s leadership, much progress has been made, with a clear plan for the year ahead which will help enable the continued growth of M&S Food.”

With Bennett stepping into the CEO role at Gist, there is optimism about the future direction of M&S Food’s logistics operations. His proven leadership capabilities and deep understanding of supply chain dynamics are expected to facilitate the ongoing transformation of M&S Food, ensuring that it remains competitive in a rapidly evolving retail landscape.

Conclusion

M&S’s decision to promote Kevin Bennett reflects its strategic focus on strengthening its logistics and supply chain capabilities. As the company navigates the complexities of modern retail, the integration of advanced logistics solutions and effective leadership will be crucial in driving growth and enhancing customer satisfaction. With Gist’s modernization efforts underway and Bennett at the helm, M&S Food is well-positioned to capitalize on emerging opportunities in the market.