Marks & Spencer general counsel Robert Ivens is retiring from the company he has called home for more than 30 years. Mr Ivens joined the retailer’s legal team in 1985 and was promoted to head of legal in 1989, steering advice to the entire Marks & Spencer Group worldwide in matters spanning employment, commercial contracts, marketing, real estate, intellectual property, consumer protection and regulation. A regular on the GC Powerlist, Mr Ivens helped the iconic retailer fend off an aggressive £9.1bn acquisition bid from billionaire Sir Phillip Green in 2004.

‘We wish Robert all the best. He has served M&S diligently for over 30 years and provided critical support to the business and the board,’ commented group company secretary Amanda Mellor. Former Wragge & Co legal director Verity Chase will step up into Mr Ivens’ shoes following his departure, having herself joined M&S in 2010.

Source: Legal Business