Staples has today appointed new UK vice president Carlos Maia to lead a multichannel strategy, integrating its online operations with stores.

He replaces former UK managing director Amee Chande who has exited the office equipment supply business after two years in the role. It is not known where she has moved on to.

Maia is currently the boss of Staples Portugal, which he will continue to operate alongside his new UK responsibilities.

In his tenure, leading the Portugal operations Maia has grown stores across the country and led a multichannel strategy to integrate the online and store portfolio in Portugal. He will seek to replicate this in the UK.

Last year Staples revealed it would be closing 23 stores out of its 134-store UK estate as customers move online.

Maia will report to president of Staples Europe, John Wilson.

Wilson said: “Carlos brings his proven leadership, a deep understanding of the Staples business and a wealth of management experience to his expanded role.

“I’m confident that Carlos will successfully lead our UK and Portugal teams to deliver a great customer experience and meet our business objectives.”

Maia added: “As our customers’ needs evolve, Staples provides all the products businesses need to succeed.

“We understand that our customers are very busy, so we’re here to make it easy to shop in store, online or via mobile. I look forward to working closely with the UK team to help serve our customers and help drive growth.”