Mike Coupe, Retail, Debrett's 500 2016, People of Influence

Mike Coupe

Chief Executive, Sainsbury’s

Mike Coupe has been chief executive at Sainsbury's since 2014 when he succeeded Justin King. He had worked for the supermarket for 10 years when he became boss, joining as trading director and becoming group commercial director in 2010. He had previously worked at Tesco, Asda and Iceland. Sainsbury's has weathered the threat of discount retailers best out of its 'big four' competitors, exceeding profit expectations in 2015 and seeing the largest surge in its share price. Described as 'quiet and steely', Coupe is credited with creating the supermarket's 'Brand Match' campaign as well as driving its successful online operations. He has also pledged to ensure Sainsbury's staff are paid more than the living wage within the next five years.