Michelle Maynard has been appointed the new chief people officer at House of Fraser.

Maynard, who joins the department store group next week, arrives from insurance and investment business Aviva.

There she was director of talent and organisational development and responsible for “driving a significant culture change agenda”, according to House of Fraser.

Most recently she was chief people officer at Aviva France, and has previously worked for British Airways, Coca-Cola, the AA and Thomas Cook.

Maynard will report to newly-appointed chief executive Alex Williamson, who will join the group on July 31.

House of Fraser executive chairman Frank Slevin said: “I am extremely pleased that someone with Michelle’s knowledge and experience is part of our executive team as we implement our five-year vision which will ensure the future success of our business.”

Maynard said: “It is a very exciting time to be joining such a vibrant business with ambitious plans.”