Sebastian James has been appointed senior vice president, president and managing director of Boots.

Mr James is currently the group chief executive of Dixons Carphone, Europe’s leading specialist electrical and telecommunications retailer and services company.

He will replace Elizabeth Fagan on 1 September 2018, who will continue to work at Boots as non-executive chairman.

Mr James said: ‘I’m very excited to be joining Walgreens Boots Alliance at this time in its history, and to have been offered the privilege of leading Boots, surely one of the UK’s most iconic, venerable and trusted brands.

‘At a time of unprecedented change in both the retail and healthcare markets, to build on the fantastic work that the team have done over the last few years, and to be a part of the next chapter for this great company is an extraordinary opportunity.

‘I look forward to getting to know my new colleagues at both Boots and WBA in the next few months.’

With a background in business, Mr James has extensive experience in managerial leadership.

Alex Gourlay, co-chief operating officer for Walgreens Boots Alliance, said: ‘We’re delighted that Sebastian will join our Company at an equally exciting and challenging time for the retail environment in the UK and for the future development of Boots, a brand synonymous with pharmacy and care.

‘We are sure his deep retail expertise will drive significant progress and innovation at Boots for the benefit all our stakeholders.’