Woolies picks marketing chief

Woolworths has appointed former Kingfisher director Stephen Robertson as its marketing boss.

Robertson, who at present is WHSmith interim marketing director, will join Woolworths in August and will be responsible for promotions, communications and in-store development. He will report directly to Woolworths chief executive Trevor Bish-Jones.

The marketing director role has been vacant since February, when Octavia Morley moved sideways to become commercial director responsible for entertainment, clothing and home.

Bish-Jones said: 'Stephen comes with a wealth of retailing and marketing experience and is a welcome addition to our operating board. He will build on our strategy of making Woolworths famous for kids and celebrations.'

Robertson said: 'The business is at an exciting time in its development and I look forward to contributing to its continued success.'

Robertson's past roles include managing director of Kingfisher DIY Direct, marketing director of B&Q and marketing director of Mattel Toys.