Laura Ashley chief executive Lillian Tan has stood down from the role.

Tan, who leaves the retailer after seven years, will be succeeded by Ng Kwan Cheong who was chief executive of Laura Ashley between 1999 to 2003 and is president of the retailer.

Ng takes over from Tan on January 5, 2012. Tan is leaving to pursue other interests.

The retailer has made chief financial officer Seán Anglim joint chief operating officer alongside Nick Kaloyirou.

Kien-Mun Ho, who is also company secretary, replaces Anglim as chief financial officer.

Laura Ashley chairman Tan Sri Dr KP Khoo said: “We are very thankful to Lillian for all she has achieved for Laura Ashley over the past 7 years. In her time as chief executive, Laura Ashley has delivered healthy growth and the brand is in a strong position for the future. Mr Ng has a wealth of experience and I am looking forward to working with him to continue growing the business.”