Andrew Cunningham, chief executive of Grainger, is to retire at the next annual general meeting of the company in February 2016.
Cunningham will have been with Grainger for nearly 20 years and chief executive for seven.
Ian Coull is to take a leave of absence from the business of the board. Baroness Ford, currently senior independent director, is taking his place as chairman.
Ford has served on the board of Grainger for six years.
Ford said: “I would like to take this opportunity to thank Andrew for his commitment and fantastic contribution to the company over the past 20 years, building Grainger to the very strong position it is in today. Whilst of course we will be sorry to see Andrew go, we are left with ample time to look for his future successor and ensure an orderly handover.”
