It has been announced that Michael Ward, Harrods’ managing director, will be joining luxury alliance Walpole as the new chairman as Ben Hughes steps down after four years.

Mr Ward has been a Walpole board director since 2012 and between 2014 and 2016 was president of the European Creative and Cultural Industries Alliance, representing Walpole members.

Walpole is an association of 170 of the UK’s luxury brands, including Harrods, Jimmy Choo, Alexander McQueen and Burberry.

Commenting Michael Ward, said: "I am delighted to take on the role of chairman at Walpole and I look forward to working closely with Walpole chief executive, Michelle Emmerson, the board and our members to continue to fulfil our mission to promote, protect and develop the British luxury industry both at home and overseas.”

Ben Hughes added: "I’m very proud of all the results that have been achieved at Walpole which is now well positioned to support the development and growth of Britain’s luxury brands. I'm delighted that Michael Ward has agreed to take over the reins and I look forward to Walpole's continued success."