The retailer has appointed Bickerstaffe, who has been a non-executive director since July 2018, to helm its strategy and transformation plans.

Bickerstaffe will succeed Melanie Smith, who was formerly strategy director before being appointed as chief executive of Ocado’s retail division following the joint venture between the online grocer and M&S.

Bickerstaffe, who has previously held roles at PepsiCo, Dyson and acted as chief executive for Dixons Carphone’s UK and Ireland division until April 2018, will take up her new role on April 27.