People familiar with the matter said Mr Cowdery was approached last summer by headhunters, as M&S searched for senior figures to strengthen the board and to ease shareholder concern over its make-up.
40150
Cowdery was approached to strengthen M&S
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Private company raises hopes of unemployed carers
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Price 'advised to hire extra security'
90052
Shareholder pressure on banks expected to grow
157365
SEARCH is on for the best in business
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Cowen Group to merge with asset manager Ramius
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Hasties directors may have breached duties
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Uniqlo appoints iCrossing to handle search
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Hereford United offer new deal to management duo
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Marks & SPENCER recruits Hilary Alexander
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Michael Hill sees boost in sales
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Marks & Spencer launches summer ad campaign
158488
Employers will 'look for specialist skills'
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Clegg weighs up rival offers
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CSR touts for a major shareholder
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Ascentric appoints head of dealing
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Takeovers Panel prepares for possible Contact Energy bid