House of Fraser boss John King steps down after eight years at helm

King will remain as a non-executive director on the board to provide guidance on strategy and ensure a smooth transition.

King said:  “When I joined the business in 2006, we set out to create the UK and Ireland’s premium department store group, and also worked to develop a strong multi-channel and premium branded offering. House of Fraser is now a much stronger business and is well positioned to enter the next exciting stage of its development as we look to build the brand internationally.

“I believe now is the right time to hand over the reins to Nigel, with whom I have worked closely over the last eight years. Nigel is the right person to lead House of Fraser into its next phase of growth.”

King is stepping down as House of Fraser prepares to open up to 50 department stores in China after being acquired for £480m by China’s Sanpower group.

Oddy said: “We have already agreed locations to expand the brand in China, with three stores due to open over the next two years, and plan to open further new stores in the Middle East with our franchise partner Retail Arabia. In addition, we will continue to focus on our strategic pillars to enhance our premium department store positioning.”

The succession plan involves a raft of other changes at the department stores as it makes a series of promotions.

Executive director of retail operations Peter Gross will replace Oddy as chief operating officer, while multichannel director Andy Harding is being promoted to chief customer officer.

Executive director menswear and childrenswear Jackie Hay will become executive director of apparel and accessories, director of finance Ray Kavanagh is promoted to executive director of commercial, executive director of home and food Ysanne Jenkins will take on the role of executive director of home beauty and food, while logistics director Tony Carr is promoted to executive director of international development and logistics.