John Lewis has confirmed its managing director Andy Street will step down from the role at the end of next month to pursue his bid to become West Midlands mayor.
The Conservative Party last night confirmed Mr Street would be its candidate after weeks of rumours linking him to the election.
Voters in the West Midlands county will go to the polls next May to select a directly elected mayor for the first time, following a devolution deal agreed between the Tory Government and the new West Midlands Combined Authority.
The choice so far will be Mr Street, Labour's candidate Siôn Simon and Beverley Nielsen for the Lib Dems.
John Lewis announced today that Mr Street's final day with the company would be October 28, bringing to an end a 31-year career with the partnership including nine as managing director.
Last year, the group opened one of its largest stores outside London when it became the anchor tenant of the Grand Central development above New Street station.
Mr Street, who was educated in Birmingham before attending the University of Oxford, said: "It has been a privilege to lead John Lewis through a transformational period in the retail industry and I am confident that we have built a business which will continue to thrive while being loyal to its principles.
"The success of John Lewis is down to the hard work and dedication of thousands of partners across the country and I know that they will continue to serve our customers with distinction."
Sir Charlie Mayfield, chairman of the John Lewis Partnership, added: "Andy has led John Lewis brilliantly and leaves the brand with great momentum for the future.
"I would like to thank him for his passionate contribution to the partnership."
Mr Street's successor in the role will be announced in due course.
