Cancer-hit Tesco chief retreats
TESCO'S UK chief executive is stepping down after being diagnosed with throat cancer. Mr Wilson, who ran wholesaler Booker Group before its £3.7billion takeover by Tesco earlier this year, had been tipped to succeed chief executive Dave Lewis.
Following an operation to remove his tonsils in April of this year, Charles Wilson was diagnosed with throat cancer.
Booker was the UK's largest food wholesaler when it was taken over by Tesco.
Tesco said that he was diagnosed after having his tonsils out in April.
He has responded well to treatment but needs to "remain vigilant in his recuperation".
“Following an operation to remove his tonsils in April of this year, Charles Wilson was diagnosed with throat cancer," Tesco said in a statement.
“During May and June, he has been undergoing daily radiotherapy."
Mr Wilson will focus on the Booker business and chief product officer Jason Tarry will take over as UK chief executive next week.
Shore Capital retail analyst Clive Black said: "We would have expected Mr Wilson to have been a prime candidate, should he have wanted [Lewis's job].”
“We are totally shocked by the news that Tesco's CEO for the UK & Ireland, Charles Wilson, has been diagnosed with throat cancer."
He added: "Mr Wilson is an outstanding businessman but more importantly a great bloke. Therefore, like everyone, our overwhelming emotion is to wish him the best possible recovery.
"In this respect we are most encouraged to see the report of his successful initial treatment."