Marks and Spencer retail tech veteran Sharon Peters takes on new CIO challenge at BAI Communications

Sharon Peters has left M&S, where she most recently served as Head of Technology - Corporate, HR, Finance, Plan A, GC, Bank Loyalty, Property, to take on the role of CIO at shared communications infrastructure big hitter BAI Communications.

Peters, who spent almost 16 years at Marks and Spencer, said in a LinkedIn post: “It’s time to say goodbye to my M&S family.”

“What a brilliant and memorable collection of experiences I have had with the best teams. I have had the honour of activating sustained change through tech whilst being inspired and inspiring (I hope) awesome colleagues.”

She added: “I’ve seen such positive change across the business and I am proud to have been a part of it. Thank you to everyone who has supported me, laughed with me (and at me !!) and celebrated with me. I wish everyone huge success for the future.”

“It was going to take something pretty incredible and special for my next adventure and I am very excited for this.”

Replying to the LinkedIn post, Mike Yorwerth, Chief Technology Officer at M&S, said: “Sharon - we will miss your boundless energy, enthusiasm and positivity. You've been brilliant for the Tech team, for gender equality, for sustainability and for M&S as a whole and we wish you every success in the future. I am sure you will be amazing.”

RTIH Innovation Awards

Peters has been a key part of the success of the RTIH Innovation Awards, serving as a member of the judging panel over the past few years.

Our 2022 winners were revealed at a sold out event in central London on Tuesday, 6th December.

RTIH Editor, Scott Thompson, said: “Innovation and technology play a critical role in the success of the retail sector, so it is great to recognise standout examples through our awards.”

“Thanks to all those who entered the 2022 event. We received a record number of submissions and many fantastic examples of the continued resilience and dynamism of the retail space during hugely challenging times.”

“Congratulations to our 2022 retail technology hall of fame entrants.”