The Co-operative Group has appointed Gill Barr as its group marketing director.

Barr moves from MasterCard, but prior to that she was at John Lewis, Woolworths, Superdrug, KPMG and Wickes.

Barr replaces Patrick Allen, who left in July last year. She will join at the end of January.

Co-op chief executive Peter Marks said:  “Over the past few years, we have seen a complete rejuvenation of the Co-operative brand, which has resulted in a doubling of sales, profits and membership.  The business now has a significant opportunity to show customers the benefits to them of shopping at all Co-operative businesses.

“I am sure that with her tremendous breadth of experience, Gill Barr will make a significant contribution to the Co-operative Group’s development over the next few years and I am delighted she is joining us at this exciting time for the business.”

Barr said: “The Co-operative’s recent rejuvenation has established great foundations for the future and I’m looking forward to using my retail and financial services experience to help drive the group forward.”