Luxury London department store Liberty has promoted Lydia King to the newly-created role of group buying and merchandising director.

King, who was previously interim buying director for a year, “brings a wealth of experience” to the new position, having also previously served as fashion director at Harrods, working across categories including womenswear, accessories and kidswear.

Previously, she spent 13 years at Selfridges, latterly as womenswear buying and merchandising director.

In her new role, King will help enhance brand partnerships, refine the customer experience, and accelerate growth across the business.

The promotion is part of the retailer’s move to “unify and strengthen” its buying and merchandising functions and coincides with a “pivotal” time for Liberty as it celebrates its 150th anniversary this year.

Liberty Retail MD Sarah Coonan said of the new appointment: “Over the past year, Lydia has demonstrated exceptional leadership and expertise, making a significant impact on our buying team.

“This appointment represents a strategic step forward for Liberty, as we continue to build our retail business, enhance our reputation as a key luxury partner, and cement our position as a thought leader in the industry. I look forward to seeing Lydia’s continued influence as we embark on this exciting new chapter.”