Sainsbury’s appoints Currys executive as new chief people officer

Sainsbury’s has appointed Paula Coughlan as its new chief people officer.

Starting in January 2027, Coughlan will join the supermarket’s operating board and will report to CEO Simon Roberts.

She joins from Currys, where she has been chief people, communications and sustainability officer since 2019.

Prior to this, Coughlan spent almost five years at McDonald’s, most recently as corporate vice president and global chief people strategy officer, having previously led the people agenda across Europe and international markets.

She also previously held a range of senior people roles at PepsiCo in the UK and Europe.

“I’m delighted that Paula is joining us,” said Roberts. “She brings outstanding experience from major consumer brands with a really strong track record of building people-centric cultures where colleagues can thrive, customers receive great service and businesses perform at their best.

“Our colleagues are at the heart of the experience we create for customers every day. Paula understands how culture, leadership and colleague engagement come together to unlock performance and I’m really looking forward to welcoming her to the team.”

Coughlan added: “Sainsbury’s is a brilliant business and a trusted brand with an important place in communities across the UK. What excites me most is the opportunity to build on its strong culture and help colleagues deliver an even better experience for customers.

“Throughout my career, I’ve seen that businesses perform at their best when colleagues feel supported, included and able to deliver for customers. Sainsbury’s has a clear plan and a real sense of purpose, and I’m excited to work with colleagues across its stores, depots and support centres to build on its strong culture and help unlock even greater performance.”