Sainsbury’s has promoted supply chain director Roger Burnley to the post of retail and logistics director, combining his existing role with that of outgoing retail director Ken McMeikan.

Burnley effectively replaces McMeikan, who, it was announced in January, is taking a sabbatical. However, today it has been revealed that McMeiken is joining bakery chain Greggs as chief executive.

In a statement, the supermarket chain said that Burnley’s role “consolidates responsibility” for its depot operations from April 21 and will improve the service it gives customers.

Sainsbury’s chief executive Justin King said: “Following Ken’s decision, I believe that this is an appropriate moment to bring the management of our retail and logistics operations together.”

McMeikan joined Sainsbury’s in 2005, having jumped ship from rival Tesco after 14 years. While at the UK’s leading supermarket, he was responsible for leading the acquisition of convenience chain Adminstore and integrating it into Tesco’s operations.

Burnley has 20 years’ experience in retail, including stints at Asda, Matalan and B&Q.