Sainsbury's head of retail resourcing and training Steven Davis has joined the board of directors of career development group Skillsmart.

Davis is the second senior figure from Sainsbury's to join Skillsmart after chief executive Justin King was named a Skillsmart retail patron last September.

Davis, who is also a non-executive director of Planet Organic and a board member of the London Employer Coalition, will join senior figures from major retail groups such as B&Q, Debenhams and John Lewis Partnership.

"Justin King has made a significant impact as one of our patrons and I am sure Steven's knowledge of retail will offer us a deeper insight into the industry," said Skillsmart chief executive Anne Seaman.

Skillsmart Retail is part funded by the government and led by retailers. The group works with retailers to develop staff and improve business performance. It also promotes retail as a career choice.

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