Terry Leahy

Sir Terence Patrick Leahy (born 28 February 1956) is a British businessman. He is best known as the former CEO of Tesco, the largest supermarket company in the United Kingdom. In 2011, he became a senior adviser at the private equity company Clayton Dubilier & Rice.

He lives in Cuffley, Hertfordshire, with his wife and three children.

 Early life 
Leahy was born in Belle Vale, Liverpool to Irish immigrant parents. He grew up in a working-class family. His father worked as a sailor and later as a bookmaker. Leahy attended Our Lady of the Assumption Primary School and later St. Edward's College, Liverpool, after passing the 11+ exam.

He worked part-time at Tesco and later studied at the University of Manchester Institute of Science and Technology, where he earned a degree in Management Science in 1977. He later received a Doctor of Science degree from Cranfield University.

 Career 
 Tesco 
Leahy joined Tesco in 1979 as a marketing executive. He helped create the Tesco Clubcard loyalty program in 1995.

He joined Tesco's board in 1992 and became chief executive in 1997. Under his leadership, Tesco became the largest retailer in the UK and expanded internationally. The company’s UK market share grew from about 20% to 30%.

In 2010, Tesco announced that Leahy would retire in 2011. After leaving, he received performance bonuses and a pension package.

 B&M Retail 
In 2012, Leahy became chairman of B&M Retail. He helped guide the company to the stock market and supported major expansion. He stepped down in 2017.

 Others 
Leahy has invested in many other companies, including cybersecurity firm, Brandshield.

 Honours 
Leahy was knighted in 2002 for his contribution to business.

 Education and other roles 
He served as Chancellor of UMIST and later the University of Manchester.

He is a supporter and adviser of Everton F.C..

 Books 
His book Management in 10 Words was published in 2012.

 References 

Category:1956 births
Category:Living people
Category:English businesspeople
Category:Knights Bachelor
Category:People from Liverpool