UK retailer Marks and Spencer has appointed former John Lewis executive Robert Weston as brand director for its foods arm.

The company told just-food today that, in the newly-created role, Weston will report to executive director of marketing Steve Sharpe.

Weston was previously head of strategy and international development at John Lewis.

His responsibilities will include developing and coordinating its brand and marketing strategy in M&S' food division. The move is part of chief executive Marc Bolland's plans to establish the retailer's "clear market position as a specialist, high quality food retailer focusing on freshness, speciality and convenience".