Laura Wade-Gery (born 1968) is a British businesswoman and retail executive, best known for her leadership roles in digital transformation and multi-channel retail at major UK companies such as Tesco and Marks & Spencer. She has held numerous non-executive director positions and is recognized for her expertise in e-commerce and strategic development in the retail sector.
Early Life and Education
Wade-Gery was born in London and grew up in Suffolk. She studied at Magdalen College, Oxford, where she read Modern History.
Career
Wade-Gery began her career in investment banking before moving into the internet sector.
- Marconi plc: She worked at Marconi plc, a British telecommunications company.
- Tesco plc: Wade-Gery joined Tesco in 2004, where she spent ten years in various senior roles focused on digital innovation. She served as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Tesco.com and Tesco Direct, and later as Group Digital Director, leading the company's online retail strategy and operations.
- Marks & Spencer plc: In 2011, she moved to Marks & Spencer as Executive Director, Multi-channel and International. She was responsible for integrating the company's online and international businesses, overseeing significant growth in its e-commerce platform and global expansion. She stepped down from this role in 2016 due to health reasons (maternity leave complications).
Non-Executive Directorships and Other Roles
Since stepping down from executive roles, Wade-Gery has focused on non-executive board positions, leveraging her extensive experience in digital retail and business strategy. Her past and present non-executive roles include:
- Legal & General Group plc: Non-Executive Director (2014–present)
- Next plc: Non-Executive Director (2017–present)
- British Retail Consortium: Chair (2018–2020)
- The AA: Non-Executive Director (2015–2018)
- TrueLayer: Board Member (2021–present), a fintech company.
- Sainsbury's Bank: Non-Executive Director (2018–2020)
Personal Life
Laura Wade-Gery is married to Archibald Gery, an investment banker. She has two children.
Recognition
Wade-Gery has frequently been cited as one of the most influential women in British retail and technology, known for her strategic vision in adapting traditional retail businesses to the digital age.