The boss of UK high street health and beauty chain Boots has announced plans to stand down after six years in the top job. Managing director Sebastian James has handed in his notice to take up a role in the healthcare sector. Boots, which is owned by US-listed giant Walgreens Boots Alliance, said Mr James will remain with the group until November.
The firm has kicked off the process to find his successor. It is thought Mr James is leaving to take on a role at a European eye surgery business. He has been in the top job at Boots in the UK since 2018, having previously headed up the electricals retailer Dixons, which has since been renamed Currys.
During his time at Boots, he has overseen 13 consecutive quarters of market share growth, according to the firm. But his decision to quit comes amid reports that Walgreens has once again put plans on ice to sell or float the Boots chain. Mr James said: “It has been a pleasure to lead this fantastic company and support its transformation during my time as managing director.
“Now in its 175th year, Boots has shaped how people access health and beauty products on the high street and I am proud to have been part of a business that continues to hold a critical role at the centre of the UK health and beauty sectors.” Ornella Barra, international chief operating officer at Walgreens Boots Alliance, said: “We thank Sebastian for his commitment – together with the Boots leadership team – to delivering a strong platform for success a.
