Stuart Rose

Sir Stuart Rose is the former Chief Executive of the leading British retailer Marks & Spencer.

Since Stuart Rose was appointed in 2004 profits have most certainly risen and they are a direct reflection of his ideas and sales lines. He has a track record for turning around struggling retailers and is credited with reviving the fortunes of fashion group Arcadia.

Stuart Rose started his retail career at Marks & Spencer in 1972. He remained there for 17 years before joining the Burton Group taking senior roles at Debenhams, Evans and Dorothy Perkins becoming Chief Executive of the Multiples Division in 1994.

In 1997 he joined Argos plc as Chief Executive to defend the takeover bid from GUS. He then became Chief Executive of Booker plc and during his two years the group was re-focused, re-financed and eventually merged with Iceland plc in May 2000.

Stuart Rose joined Arcadia Group plc as chief executive in November 2000 and left in December 2002 following its acquisition by Philip Green/Taveta Investments.

In January 2007, he was named the "2006 Business Leader of the Year" by the World Leadership Forum for his efforts in restoring the fortunes of Marks and Spencer. He was knighted in the 2008 New Year Honours and was appointed Chairman of Business in the Community on 1 January 2008.

Stuart Rose stepped down as Chief Executive in May 2010, and will step down as Chairman in January 2011 following the appointment of Robert Swannell.

With a well-earned and established reputation in Britain's retail sector Sir Stuart is ideally placed to offer audiences insights into the secrets of his ongoing success.