John Lewis boss installed as Conservative candidate for West Midlands Mayor

THE boss of John Lewis and the former chairman of the Greater Birmingham and Solihull LEP, Andy Street has been officially adopted as the Conservative mayoral candidate for the West Midlands Combined Authority.

The announcement was widely expected and there has been speculation for much of this year that Mr Street would be the man stepping forward.

While already holding a high profile in the area – and on the national stage due to his work with the retailer – he will get the chance to get his campaign off to a flying start when he takes to the main stage at Symphony Hall on Sunday during the Conservative Party Conference.

In his speech he is expected to set out his plans to make the West Midlands an even more prosperous and successful part of the country.

His experience in this area is significant, having worked closely with Lord Heseltine when the peer was preparing his No Stone Unturned report, which is believed to be the blueprint for the devolution now taking place across the country.

Mr Street, who was brought up in Birmingham, said: “I am honoured to have been selected as Conservative candidate for the position of West Midlands Mayor.

“With the backing of local members, the journey starts here. Next May voters across the seven cities and boroughs which make up the Combined Authority will face a critical election.

“It will determine how we create wealth here, and what type of society the West Midlands will become. I promise to work tirelessly to convince voters that I am the man to lead us through these decisions.”

He said the opportunities ahead for the region were unprecedented.

“Our economy is being renewed, but we have much more to do to ensure everybody feels the benefit. Our mission is therefore to build the economic powerhouse of Britain in an inclusive way,” he said.

“That will need leadership from somebody who has a proven record, can bring people together, and can represent us with passion. This election needs to go beyond traditional political loyalties, and I look forward to seeking voters’ support for the job ahead.”

In bidding for the role, Mr Street has had to step down as managing director of John Lewis, ending a 31-year association with the business – the last nine of which have been in the senior role.

A successor will be announced in due course, the retailer has said.

Sir Charlie Mayfield, chairman of the John Lewis Partnership, said: “Andy has led John Lewis brilliantly and leaves the brand with great momentum for the future. I would like to thank him for his passionate contribution to the Partnership.”

Mr Street said: “It has been a privilege to lead John Lewis through a transformational period in the retail industry, and I am confident that we have built a business which will continue to thrive while being loyal to its principles.

“The success of John Lewis is down to the hard work and dedication of thousands of Partners across the country, and I know that they will continue to serve our customers with distinction.”

 

Click here to sign up to receive our new South West business news...
Close