Tesco has appointed Chris Blatchford as its future Chief Technology Officer (CTO). This was reported by the British journal The Grocer. The current incumbent, Guus Dekkers, will step down from his role in December 2026 and retire.
Chris Blatchford will take up his new role in March 2027 and become a member of Tesco’s Executive Committee. During the transition period, Jane Mustoe, Senior Technology Director at Tesco, will take over the role on an interim basis from the start of November this year.
Chris Blatchford currently works as Group Chief Technology Officer at Kingfisher. At the British DIY retailer, he is responsible for the technology, data and product platforms of the retailer’s banner operations B&Q, Screwfix, Castorama and Brico Dépôt.
Tesco appoints experienced chief technology officer
Tesco CEO Ken Murphy has paid tribute to the outgoing incumbent, Guus Dekkers, and highlighted his contribution to the technology strategy. Since joining Tesco in April 2018, he has played a key role in modernising the retail company’s IT systems. Furthermore, Guus Dekkers has strengthened the foundations for digital applications, data and cyber security.
Chris Blatchford intends to build on his predecessor’s work and utilise technology even more effectively to enhance the experiences of customers and staff across the entire Tesco ecosystem: “I am really excited to be joining Tesco at a time when the technology agenda has never been more important.”
Chris Blatchford to drive IT transformation
“I am delighted that we have found such a strong successor in Chris Blatchford,” says Ken Murphy, Tesco’s CEO. “He has already led technology, data and digital transformation at scale and brings a combination of strategic vision, deep technical expertise and a strong track record of building high-performing teams.”
