New Harrods CEO

The 12-year Gucci Group veteran James McArthur has been named as chief executive officer and Harrods Group chief, a newly-created position.

McArthur was president and CEO of Balenciaga until May 2007, when he left the company to be replaced by Sergio Rosso president and CEO Isabelle Guichot.

While at Gucci Group, McArthur simultaneously held the position of group executive vice president and director of strategy and acquisitions from 2000 to 2007, during which time he oversaw the Alexander McQueen and Stella McCartney businesses worldwide.

He also served as interim president and CEO of Yves Saint Laurent from 2004 to 2005, reports Fashion Week Daily.

Harrods chairman Mohamed Al Fayed said: "The Harrods brand name is already very powerful worldwide, but there is still scope to maximise its potential. We aim to consolidate and further advance its position as one of the world's best brands and to enhance the customer experience.

"James will bring a complementary set of strategic and leadership skills to our overall group of businesses that will help us to strengthen and propel the evolution of the organisation and its subsidiaries."