Marks & Spencer Simply Food

The marketing revamp will include a overhal of M&S’s Simpl Food programme

M&S has shaken up its marketing team and recruited “creative firebrand” Sharry Cramond to the newly created role of marketing director, food and hospitality.

The revamp, which takes effect from 29 January, forms part of the retailer’s ongoing programme of change under its five-year transformation plan, which includes a slowdown of the Simply Food opening programme.

Cramond joins M&S from Southeastern Grocers, in Jacksonville, Florida, where she was executive vice-president, marketing & communications since May 2015.

She previously worked for Tesco for nearly two years - as group marketing strategy and brand director, and then proposition and brand marketing director.

Other earlier roles include marketing director for department store chain Target Australia and general manager - marketing communication.

She is joined by Nathan Ansell, who has been moved from his role as marketing director customer & loyalty to become marketing director, clothing & home.

Rob Weston will complete the senior marketing team. He becomes marketing director, brand & customer, with responsibility for a new customer centre of excellence as well has his existing brand remit.

The trio will report into Patrick Bousquet-Chavanne, executive director, customer, marketing & digital.

“We’re changing M&S. Marketing and customer engagement will play a significant part in our transformation. The new team structure reflects this and, coupled with our one-brand approach, will ensure that we are faster, more commercial and acutely focused on our customers,” said Bousquet-Chavanne.

“Sharry is a creative firebrand who brings strong food and digital experience to the team. We are looking forward to working together to drive our transformation plan with pace and clarity for our customers.”

M&S, meanwhile, confirmed that Victoria Self, whose appointment as digital director was previously announced, would take up her role on 25 January.