Waitrose has promoted commercial operations director Jackie Wharton to director of convenience, in charge of its Little Waitrose stores.

Wharton replaces Diana Hunter, who is leaving Waitrose next month to become CEO of Bargain Booze.

She has worked at Waitrose for 15 years and has been director of commercial operations since 2008, responsible for pricing, promotions and merchandising. Prior to joining Waitrose, she worked for seven years at Sainsbury’s.

In her new role, Wharton will be report to Waitrose retail director Rob Collins.

“Jackie’s wealth of experience in retail and her success in developing our commercial operation functions makes her the perfect person to take on the exciting role of driving our convenience business forward,” said Collins.

Waitrose has 36 convenience shops and plans to open another ten in central London this year