Marks & Spencer’s Digital Chief Resigns Amid Cyberattack Fallout
September 11, 2025 – In a significant leadership shift, Marks & Spencer (M&S) has announced the resignation of Rachel Higham, the company’s Chief Digital and Technology Officer. This decision comes just months after a severe cyberattack that severely disrupted the retailer’s online operations, raising questions about the company’s digital security and operational resilience.
Background on the Cyberattack
The cyberattack, which occurred earlier this year, was a major incident that sent shockwaves through the retail sector. M&S reported that the breach would likely result in a staggering loss of approximately £300 million (around $405 million) in operating profit for the 2025/26 financial year. The company has since indicated that it hopes to mitigate some of these losses through insurance claims and stringent cost control measures.
Cybersecurity has become an increasingly pressing issue for businesses worldwide, particularly in the retail sector, where online sales have surged in recent years. The attack on M&S is a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities that even established brands face in an increasingly digital marketplace.
Higham’s Departure
Rachel Higham, who joined M&S in June 2024, has decided to take a career break, according to a spokesperson for the company. “Rachel has decided to take a break and is stepping back from her role, having been a valued part of the leadership team,” the spokesperson stated. Higham was recognized for her steady leadership during a tumultuous period for the company, and her departure raises questions about the future direction of M&S’s digital strategy.
Sky News was the first to report on Higham’s resignation, highlighting the timing of her exit in relation to the cyberattack. The incident has not only impacted M&S’s financial outlook but has also put a spotlight on the effectiveness of its digital infrastructure and security protocols.
Leadership Transition
In the wake of Higham’s departure, Sacha Berendji, currently serving as M&S’s Operations Director, will assume additional responsibilities overseeing the digital and technology functions. This dual role may present both challenges and opportunities as Berendji navigates the complexities of digital transformation while managing ongoing operational demands.
The decision to consolidate leadership roles could be seen as a strategic move to streamline operations during a critical recovery phase. However, it also raises concerns about whether one individual can effectively manage both the operational and digital aspects of a company facing significant challenges.
The Broader Implications for Retail
The fallout from the cyberattack at M&S is emblematic of a broader trend affecting retailers globally. As e-commerce continues to grow, the risks associated with digital operations have become more pronounced. According to a report by Cybersecurity Ventures, cybercrime is projected to cost the world $10.5 trillion annually by 2025, underscoring the urgent need for robust cybersecurity measures.
Retailers are increasingly investing in advanced technologies to protect their systems and data. However, as M&S’s experience illustrates, even the most prepared organizations can fall victim to sophisticated cyber threats. The incident has prompted many companies to reevaluate their cybersecurity strategies and invest in more comprehensive training for employees to recognize and respond to potential threats.
Conclusion
Rachel Higham’s resignation from Marks & Spencer marks a pivotal moment for the retailer as it grapples with the aftermath of a significant cyberattack. The company’s ability to recover and adapt in the face of such challenges will be closely watched by industry analysts and competitors alike. As M&S transitions to new leadership in its digital and technology sectors, the focus will undoubtedly be on strengthening its cybersecurity measures and ensuring that its online operations can withstand future threats.
In an era where digital resilience is paramount, the lessons learned from this incident will likely shape the future strategies of not only M&S but also the broader retail landscape.
