London

MARKS & Spencer Group Plc said its clothing head John Dixon is leaving the UK retailer, ending a career that began on the shop floor almost 30 years ago.

"I now have the opportunity to become a chief executive and have therefore resigned from this great company," Mr Dixon said in a statement issued by London-based Marks & Spencer late on Thursday. The statement didn't say where he will work next. Mr Dixon will step down from the board immediately and leave on a date to be determined.