Rob Templeman, who will retire from his position at Debenhams on September 2, will succeed current BRC chairman Luke Mayhew.
Mr Templeman, who has previously held the positions of chief executive and chairman at Halfords, as well as chief exec of Homebase, will officially take up his new role at the British Retail Consortium on October 1.

BRC director general Stephen Robertson said of the appointment: "Rob is a heavy weight in the world of retail. His huge experience and formidable knowledge of the big issues that the sector faces, make him an ideal chairman for the BRC as we work to help create a vibrant future and sustainable retail industry for the future."

He added: "Rob has demonstrated keen support for the work of the BRC and, on a personal level, his wisdom and insight are invaluable."

Mr Robertson also thanked outgoing chairman Mr Mayhew for his work and the "great strides" the BRC has made over the past two years under his chairmanship.

Mr Templeman said of his new role: "I am really pleased to be asked to chair the BRC... Retail is on of the UK's largest employers. It represents an important part of the country's economy and the BRC has proven to be an authoritative voice for the industry."