M&S tech chief Rachel Higham resigns after major cyberattack

In the United Kingdom, a significant shift in leadership occurred within M&S, a well-known retailer, when Rachel Higham stepped down from her role as Chief Technology Officer. This decision came just months after the company faced a severe cyberattack that disrupted its services and raised concerns regarding data security and customer trust. During this turbulent period, Higham was recognized for her composed leadership and effective management, ensuring that the organization navigated the challenges posed by the attack effectively. The cyberattack itself had far-reaching impacts, causing delays in payment processing and leading to customer dissatisfaction. As the retailer struggled to restore normal operations, it became clear that the attack not only threatened the company’s financial health but also jeopardized its reputation. Higham played a crucial role in overseeing recovery efforts and implementing changes to bolster the company's cybersecurity framework. In the wake of her departure, the company publicly acknowledged her contributions, emphasizing her steady hand and calm demeanor throughout an extraordinary time. Higham’s transition to a career break was positioned as a positive step for both her personal development and the organization's strategic reevaluation of its leadership and technological direction. This leadership change raises important questions regarding the future of M&S's technology department and its strategy for improving cybersecurity measures. With more companies facing increasing threats from cybercriminals, M&S will need to respond robustly to ensure it can continue to provide secure services to its customers and maintain competitive advantage in an increasingly digital marketplace.