Harrods Managing Director Michael Ward has extended his tenure and will continue to lead the business until the beginning of next year.

Ward was due to retire from the position this summer after serving 11 years at the luxury department store.

The retailer‘s boss confirmed to staff that following discussions with shareholders, he has decided to complete Harrods‘ financial year and remain with the company through the Christmas trading period.

Prior to joining the Knightsbridge department store in 2005, Ward headed health and beauty business Lloyds and worked at private equity firm Apax. The current Harrods boss is also Chairman of Walpole, a luxury brands company.

Ward has been a dominant campaigner in support of Harrods‘ main customer base, attempting to relax Chinese visit visa laws.

Harrods is yet to announce whether Ward‘s successor has been found.