Debenhams has named former Franklin Templeton executive vice-president and international retail expert Lisa Myers as a non-executive director.

Her appointment comes as the department store group goes through a time of change.

Lisa Myer will bring international experience to Debenhams

Lisa Myers, Debenhams non-executive director

Lisa Myer will bring international experience to Debenhams

Former Amazon executive Sergio Bucher will join as chief executive next month and ex-Kingfisher chief executive Sir Ian Cheshire became chairman in April this year.

Myers was previously an executive vice-president at investment management firm Franklin Templeton, where as lead portfolio manager she oversaw $10bn of assets.

She also coordinated global consumer research and was responsible for retail, apparel and luxury goods.

Cheshire said: “She has had a long and distinguished career in fund management and her extensive knowledge of international retail will be a great addition to the board.”

Debenhams trades in 27 countries altogether and aims to provide consumers with a “differentiated and exclusive mix” of international and own-brands.