UK supermarket Asda has strengthened its senior leadership team with the appointment of a new Group Chief Information Officer, as the retailer continues to rebuild its technology and data capabilities following its separation from Walmart.
Asda confirmed that Cal Corcoran will join the business on 5 January 2026, taking responsibility for the group’s Technology and Data teams.
The appointment comes at a critical point for Asda. The retailer has completed its long-running separation programme from Walmart and is now focused on stabilising, optimising, and modernising its internal systems to support future growth.
Corcoran brings more than 25 years of IT leadership experience across multiple sectors, including big tech, financial services, aviation, energy, telecoms, and aerospace. His previous roles include senior technology positions at Microsoft, Barclays, Gatwick Airport, BP, and Castrol, giving him experience managing large-scale transformation projects in complex operating environments.
At Asda, his remit will centre on strengthening the retailer’s core technology platforms, improving the use of data across the business, and ensuring systems can support both operational efficiency and customer-facing services. Technology and data have become increasingly central to how UK supermarkets manage pricing, supply chains, loyalty programmes, and digital channels.
Asda said the role will play a key part in how the business delivers for customers and colleagues as it heads into 2026, with a renewed focus on execution following the structural changes of recent years.
Commenting on the appointment, Asda Executive Chairman Allan Leighton said the retailer’s use of data and technology is a critical element of its growth strategy and that Corcoran’s experience will help the business deliver at scale.
The move reflects a wider trend across UK supermarkets, where senior technology leadership is becoming more prominent as retailers invest in data, systems resilience, and long-term digital capability after years of disruption and restructuring.
What Happens Next
The appointment also reflects a wider trend across UK supermarkets.
Retailers are spending more on technology and data because their systems now control pricing, stock, loyalty schemes, and online orders. After years of system changes and cost pressure, supermarkets want stronger control over how their technology works day to day.
That is why more UK supermarkets are giving senior technology roles a direct place at board level.
Editor’s note: This article is based on Asda’s official announcement dated 30 December 2025. Company statements and background details were checked against publicly available information on Asda’s leadership team and previous senior appointments. No additional commentary or assumptions have been added.
