Liberty has appointed a new chief executive, bringing to an end its extended period without one.

Adil Mehboob-Khan is the former boss of luxury eyewear retailer Luxottica.

Previously, he was chief executive of Wella and vice-president for beauty in Europe at Procter & Gamble.

Liberty has been without a chief executive since the departure of Ed Burstell to Canada’s Hudson’s Bay Company in 2016.

Liberty chairman and managing partner of owner Blue Gem Capital Marco Capello said: “We have been searching for an individual of Adil’s calibre for some time and are excited to welcome a person with broad experience across beauty, brand and retail to drive us to the next level.”

Mehboob-Khan added: “Few, if any, companies have Liberty London’s rich and storied heritage.

“With its landmark central London store, unique fabrics business and exclusive Liberty London collection, this national icon has significant global potential. I am thrilled to join at such an exciting time.”