Leading Supermarkets In Search Of Green Directors

Tue, 21 Aug 2007
 
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Britain’s top three supermarket chains are each in the hunt for new directors of corporate social responsibility to take charge of their respective green agendas .

With resignations handed in at both Asda and Sainsbury's and a decision by Tesco to recruit a new specialist to work alongside the retailer’s government affairs director, all three companies are now looking for people to fill vacant and important roles.

Over the last few years, the UK’s main grocers have battled it out for bragging rights over who is the most eco friendly supermarket, with a stream of initiatives being introduced on everything from using fewer carrier bags to generating wind power to using reusable till-point paper.

As consumers have become more aware of the supermarkets' effect on the environment, the role of the CSR director has changed form being known as simply a behind-the-scenes job to a high profile position.

Helen Lo, former CSR specialist at Sainsbury’s, stepped down from her post, although she is still working at the supermarket on a special project while she serves her notice period. Her previous role is now being overseen by the retailer’s director of communications, Pip Wood.

Ms Lo only joined Sainsbury's earlier this year from Unilever, where she was head of CSR and sustainability. She had previously worked for the National Farmers' Union (NFU) and before that spent a total of 14 years at Sainsbury's.

Meanwhile Asda's environmental specialist, Ian Bowles, has also resigned after more than five years at the supermarket, while the search for his replacement is being led by Paul Kelly, Asda's new director of corporate affairs.

Tesco, the UK’s largest supermarket group, is looking for someone to fill the role of director of CSR, where they will work alongside David North, Tesco’s director of government affairs.

Mr North has been in charge of the supermarket's community initiative - a 10-point plan to help make Tesco seen as a "good neighbour" . His previous jobs included working at 10 Downing Street, where he advised Tony Blair on the country’s rural affairs.

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