M&S digital chief exits months after damaging hack

Core Viewpoint - Marks & Spencer's chief digital and technology officer, Rachel Higham, is stepping down following a significant cyberattack that impacted the company's online operations [1][2] Group 1: Leadership Changes - Rachel Higham, who joined Marks & Spencer in June, is taking a career break, prompting a reshuffle in the leadership team [1][2] - Sacha Berendji, a veteran at M&S, will assume responsibility for the digital and technology function alongside his current role in property and store development [2][3] - Thinus Keeve, the new retail director, will now report directly to Chief Executive Stuart Machin instead of Berendji [2][3] Group 2: Financial Impact - The cyberattack is expected to cost Marks & Spencer approximately £300 million ($405 million) in lost operating profit for the 2025/26 financial year, with hopes to mitigate this through insurance and cost controls [2] - M&S shares have declined by 8.5% year-to-date [3]