Yaxley returns as CEO of Tesco Ireland & Northern Ireland

Supermarket group Tesco has announced the return of Andrew Yaxley to the position of CEO of Tesco Ireland and Northern Ireland.

Mr Yaxley succeeds Geoff Byrne, who will become CEO of food and drink wholesaler the Booker Group, which is owned by Tesco.

Tesco said the appointments, which take effect from the end of August, reflect its continued focus on developing leadership talent across the group and building on the strong momentum in both businesses.

Andrew Yaxley previously served as CEO of Tesco Ireland from 2015 to 2018, leading the business through a period of significant transformation and growth.

He then joined the Tesco Group leadership team as Chief Product Officer before becoming CEO of the Booker Group.

Tesco also said that Geoff Byrne brings extensive experience in senior leadership roles to Booker, most recently as CEO of Tesco Ireland and Northern Ireland.

Both Mr Byrne and Mr Yaxley will continue to form part of the Tesco Group Executive Committee.

Andrew Yaxley said he was delighted to be returning to Tesco Ireland and looked forward to working with colleagues to build on the strong momentum already in place.

“Under Geoff’s leadership, the business has delivered excellent progress, growing its position in the market while continuing to serve customers and communities across Ireland and Northern Ireland. I’m excited to lead the business through its next chapter”, he said.

“It has been a privilege to lead Tesco Ireland and Northern Ireland and I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved together,” Geoff Byrne said.

“The business is in a strong position, with a talented team, a clear strategy and strong momentum. Booker is a fantastic business with a unique position in the market, and I’m excited to work with colleagues there to build on its many strengths,” he added.

Ken Murphy, Tesco’s Group CEO, said that Tesco Ireland and Northern Ireland are both great businesses with talented teams and ambitious plans for the future.

“Developing talent across our group and creating opportunities for leaders to bring their experience into different parts of the business is a key strength of Tesco,” he said.

“Andrew and Geoff have each made a huge contribution in their current roles. Their experience, knowledge and track record make them the right leaders for the next chapter for Booker and Tesco Ireland and Northern Ireland,” he added.