CEO of Lidl, Jesper Hojer, is to stand down after two years in the role. The news is the second top-level resignation at Schwarz Group in a matter of weeks after the exit of Kaufland head Patrick Kaudewitz. Hojer’s position will be temporarily filled by deputy purchasing director Ignazio Paternò until a successor can be found.

In a statement issued by Schwarz Group, Hojer said: "It was not an easy decision to make my position available, but it is time for me to reorient my family and professional future." Hojer took the reins at the discounter in 2017, following the departure of Sven Seidel. He had previously headed the banner’s operations in Belgium.

Interim CEO Paternò has worked for Schwarz Group since 2004 and was Lidl Italia CEO from 2015-2018, when he joined the senior management team in Neckarsulm. He will report to Gerd Chrzanowski, Spokesman of the Advisory Board, who has only himself settled into a new role following a recent restructuring of top-level management.

Source: Lebensmittel Zeitung