Electricals giant DSGi has poached supply chain expert Danielle Williams from Comet to beef up its commercial team as it prepares to square up to rival Best Buy, which opens its first UK store today.

Williams, general manager of supply at Comet, will take up the new role of value chain director in June, reporting to commercial director Steve Ager. She will join Lindsey North, who joined DSGi last week as merchandise planning director, moving from Laura Ashley where she was merchandise and marketing director.

The hires are understood to be part of DSGi’s Renewal and Transformation Strategy, launched in 2008 to drive value, choice and service. It is understood DSGi is focusing on availability and ensuring the right products are on the shelves, as Best Buy - famous for its customer service - makes its debut.

It is understood Arran Aujla at search firm Proco Global placed Williams and North.

DSGi has also launched a franchise operation in Turkey, where it already has 11 Electro World stores.